Homeowners still left in the dark over flood insurance

Worried homeowners are still awaiting an announcement from the Government about the future framework for flood insurance. 30.07.007.JBE20

A VALE flood campaigner has called for the Government to take action and provide homeowners in flood-hit communities with vital insurance cover.

An announcement on a future framework for flood insurance was expected to be made in the Spring but nothing has yet been announced leaving homeowners in the dark and worried they will be left without cover should another flooding disaster strike.

A new future framework for flood insurance is being called for with the current Statement of Principals agreement due to expire next year.

This gentleman's agreement between the Government and the Insurance Industry provided some assurance to homeowners that they will be offered insurance again after a flood.

The Association of British Insurers (ABI) and the Morpeth Flood Group have both proposed insurance models which pool flood risk. They would control rocketing premiums for those at greatest risk and give choice for those trapped after a flood with their existing insurer.

But Charles Tucker, chairman of leading flood charity the National Flood Forum, said it is now time the Government got the issue sorted and eased the concerns of homeowners.

“We know that government is talking to the Association of British Insurers about a future framework, but it’s time for the talking to stop and action to begin," he said.

“Flood-hit communities need to know that they will be able to get affordable insurance in the future.

"Thousands of people already have great difficulty finding affordable insurance in flood risk areas and we are getting an increasing number of calls from people struggling to buy or sell houses.

"The numbers can only increase unless government steps in to shape the market and ensure that flood insurance is both available and affordable.

“We look to Government and the ABI to get this right. It’s not often Government makes people happy but we hope this is one time that they will.”

A Defra spokeswoman said no agreement has yet been struck but they are still working to find the right long term solution for homeowners.

“We have not yet arrived at an agreement, but discussions with the insurance industry continue to be constructive and we are working together to reach a solution that is practical and affordable for households," she said.

“We’re mindful of those on lower incomes living with the risk of flooding. That’s why we’re considering ways to keep flood insurance affordable for those who might struggle most with premium increases.”

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