Saturday, November 21, 2009
THE country’s largest insurance company dealt with a staggering 1,042 claims yesterday as its call lines were inundated by flood victims.
Hibernian Aviva spokesman Alan Tyrell said it was "a very significant increase" in daily activity as the company normally deals with about 2,000 claims in a week.
Mr Tyrell said the company had put extra call handlers on duty and they would be working again today in anticipation that many more claims for flood damage will be lodged.
The claims lodged related mainly to property and car damage due to flooding and a large percentage came from the west of Ireland and the Cork area.
Mr Tyrell said the company was advising home owners in flooded areas to exercise extreme caution in the coming days as the weather is predicted to remain stormy.
Meanwhile, the Irish Insurance Federation (IIF) has advised householders to take sensible precautions to prevent further damage to their property.
IIF spokesman Michael Horan said householders should, if possible, move furniture to an upper storey.
"There is no doubt that flooding has already caused extensive damage, particularly in the South and west of the country. However, it is too early at this stage to estimate the cost of the flood. This figure will not be available for at least three to four weeks," Mr Horan said.
"Householders who have suffered damage should contact their insurers as quickly as possible. Insurers are working hard to ensure that policy-holders’ claims are handled quickly. Many insurers have emergency helplines for their customers," Mr Horan said.
He reminded policyholders that household buildings and contents insurance will usually cover damage caused by flooding. Damage to cars is covered by comprehensive insurance policies.
Mr Horan said insurers will usually pay for the cost of temporary repairs, so people should ensure they keep receipts.
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