On 30th anniversary of the 1987 Great Storm, windy weather forecast for the west of the UK - protect your home and business now.
Aviva is advising homeowners and businesses to take basic precautions to protect themselves and their property ahead of heavy downpours and very strong winds from ex-tropical storm Ophelia, which are forecast to hit the west coast of the UK early next week.
The tail-end of the US tropical storm is due to coincide with the 30th anniversary of the Great Storm of 15/16 October 1987, which caused winds of over 100mph, significant damage across the UK and killed 18 people.*
Although we know from history that precise forecasting can be difficult, Aviva has its network of contractors and property claims experts on stand by across the country and its contact centres are available 24/7 to help those who might be affected by the forecast unsettled weather.
Rob Townend, claims director for Aviva said: “While it’s unclear yet how severe the storm will be, high winds and heavy rain could cause havoc to homes and businesses. But some simple measures can help to minimise any damage. For example, secure your fences, doors and windows and be aware that you may face disruption to your travel plans.
“Our claims teams are ready and here to help if your property or car has been damaged as a direct result of storm force conditions. We can also arrange alternative accommodation for you if the damage means you need to move out of your home temporarily.”
Customers wishing to make a claim should contact:
- For home insurance - call 0345 030 6945 or you can report a claim online on MyAviva at your convenience to get your claim reference.
- For car insurance: call 0345 030 6925 or report a claim online at MyAviva.
- For business insurance: contact your broker or for commercial property claims call 0800 015 1498, for commercial motor 0800 246 876 and for motor trade 0800 0466 229.
What to do before the storm
- If possible park the car in a garage, or away from large trees.
- If time allows and it is safe to do so check for loose tiles on the roof, secure any weak fencing etc to minimise the risk of causing damage to other parts of your property.
- Safely store or secure any garden furniture, ornaments, bikes or children’s toys/outside play equipment.
- Make sure all doors and windows are closed.
- In the event of an electrical storm remove the aerial from the TV set.
What to do after the storm
Call your insurer immediately if your property suffers damage. Aviva’s team of experts will be able to give you advice on how to prevent further damage and will help you with your claim to get your property back to the way it was.
For media enquiries:
Liz Kennett | Aviva Press Office | 07800 692675 | liz.kennett@aviva.com
Sally Richards | Aviva Press Office | 07789 270677 | sally.richards@aviva.com
*Met Office weather case studies
Notes to editors:
- Aviva provides life insurance, general insurance, health insurance and asset management to 33 million customers.
- In the UK we are the leading insurer serving one in every four households and have strong businesses in selected markets in Europe, Asia and Canada. Our shares are listed on the London Stock Exchange and we are a member of the FTSE100 index.
- Aviva’s asset management business, Aviva Investors, provides asset management services to both Aviva and external clients, and currently manages over £340 billion in assets. Total group assets under management at Aviva group are £450 billion.
- Aviva helps people save for the future and manage the risks of everyday life; we paid out £34.4 billion in benefits and claims in 2016.
- By serving our customers well, we are building a business which is strong and sustainable, which our people are proud to work for, and which makes a positive contribution to society.
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