Homeowners concerned that their property may be damaged by the inclement weather that Britain is in the midst of should take steps to safeguard their homes.

Such is the assertion of Halifax Home Insurance which claims that as various parts of England and Wales are battered by floods and high winds, there are a number of measures that consumers should consider to help protect their property. The West Yorkshire-based firm particularly advised that people make sure that they have a comprehensive home insurance policy. Should they be concerned that their house will be hit by a flood, Halifax urged Britons to make sure that they have their insurers’ details close at hand in case they need to make a claim. Furthermore, those who find their house or contents have been damaged should get in touch with their cover provider as soon as possible.

However, people who do not have insurance, or discover that their policy does not provide as much cover as thought, could find their personal finance situation comes under increased pressure. As they may have to meet the cost of repairing their homes and replacing storm or flood-damaged items themselves, it is possible that such consumers may develop problems in meeting other demands on their spending. Such areas could include personal loan repayments, credit cards and mortgage costs.

The company claimed that before a flood hits, consumers should turn off the mains supplies on their gas, electricity and water, in addition to unplugging all electrical items and storing them as high as possible. Homeowners were also advised to place sandbags outside their doors and windows to help reduce the amount of flood water which enters their house.

If people believe that their home might by damaged by high winds, Halifax suggested that any objects which could become dangerous are secured, while gutters and drainpipes should be kept free. Creating a home emergency kit, including items such as torches, blankets and home insurance documentation, was also advised.

In case a flood occurs, however, people should make sure that their utility supplies have been checked by an engineer and that any gas and electrical appliances are examined by a registered tradesperson before using them. Doors and windows should also be opened to allow a home to dry out before any attempt at redecorating is made.

Meanwhile, for those who are concerned that they will be unable to afford to repair their homes and replace items, applying for a homeowner loan could be a useful means of help with money.

David Rochester, head of underwriting for the financial services firm, said: “The number of homes at risk of flood has trebled in recent years but there are several simple steps homeowners can take before a flood hits that can go a long way towards minimising water damage. Those who are already flooded can also take measures to ensure their property is returned to its normal state with as little disruption as possible.”

In taking out a homeowner loan, consumers may find that they are able to fund repairs and improve their property to protect against further damage. As well as safeguarding against storms, this type of loan might help those with young children. A recent Halifax study indicated that toddlers have caused a total of 122 million pounds in breakages in their parents’ houses over the last year. Although the average accidental damage claim is 529 pounds 68p, the firm suggested that the worst-affected properties last year incurred more than 10,000 pounds worth of destruction.

1 Stop Finance Shop providing you with breaking homeowner loans news.