Wales hit by torrential downpours and strong gusts

Wales hit by torrential downpours and strong gusts

• Areas of Wales have been hit by torrential downpours and strong winds over the weekend, with many areas now experiencing freezing temperatures and severe flooding
• Direct Line's fast response teams have been assisting customers who have been affected, with support teams and extreme weather vehicles checking in on our most vulnerable customers
• We have teams of claims advisors ready to take calls offering help and advice
• Direct Line's home insurance experts are also available for media interviews

Storm Bert has left many in South Wales and the surrounding areas severely impacted this weekend, as it brought heavy rainfall, strong winds of over 70 mph and flooding. A major incident has been declared with a significant number of homes experiencing damage. Direct Line's field insurance advisors have been on the ground supporting customers who need help and advice during this time, basing themselves in South Wales at Pontypridd.

Natalie Howarth, Customer Experience Manager, said: "With homes significantly impacted by the gusting winds and rising flood water, householders should continue to monitor local weather warnings and official guidance. We take every weather warning extremely seriously and have put emergency action plans into place, by having expert teams on the ground and on the phones ready to assist customers if they need to make a claim. Our priority is reassuring householders and getting them back in their home as quickly as possible."

With homes affected by flooding and storm damage, Direct Line Home Insurance is providing advice for householders on how to protect homes from the ongoing weather conditions and what to do if their home has already been affected.

Direct Line has the following advice for householders if flooding and storm damage occurs:

• Direct Line customers: If your property is damaged, please contact our 24-hour emergency helpline on 0345 878 5081 as soon as possible
• If you need to move to alternative accommodation, the cost is normally covered under your insurance policy, but please check this when speaking to the claims team
• When possible, take photographs of the damage to your building and contents or film it; this may help streamline the settlement of your claim
• Don't throw away possessions without first discussing it with your claims advisor, as they will need to be assessed
• Do not use electrical equipment or the gas supply until it has been checked by a qualified tradesman

• Use a plastic sheet or tarpaulin to temporarily repair storm-damaged roofs

• Whilst nearly half of all weather-related claims are due to roof damage, your personal safety is paramount. If it is not safe to do so, do not attempt temporary repairs

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Notes to editors:

1. https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/

For further information please contact:

Chelsey Wheeler

Deputy Head of News and Issues

[email protected]

Direct Line

Started in 1985, Direct Line became the first UK insurance company to use the telephone as its main channel of communication. It provides motor, home, travel and pet insurance cover direct to customers by phone or on-line.

Direct Line general insurance policies are underwritten by U K Insurance Limited, Registered office: The Wharf, Neville Street, Leeds LS1 4AZ. Registered in England and Wales No 1179980. U K Insurance Limited is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority.

Direct Line and U K Insurance limited are both part of Direct Line Insurance Group plc.

Customers can find out more about Direct Line products or get a quote by calling 0345 246 3761 or visiting www.directline.com.