Storm Malik Claims: Aviva Customer Update

Here is an update for Aviva home insurance policyholders, after the severe weather which affected some parts of the UK yesterday;

Kelly Whittington, director of property and speciality claims at Aviva, said:

“Since Storm Malik hit, we’ve been very busy helping customers with their claims and providing emergency support. We’ve also been sharing advice through our social media channels, to help customers who have been affected.

“The storm has impacted many parts of northern England and Scotland, but the worst affected areas have been in the north east, particularly Newcastle and County Durham. Our phone lines have been very busy and we’ve seen an increase of around 220% in telephone calls and online claim notifications, compared to a normal weekend. Customers are able to contact us in a number of ways and around 30% of people have made a claim using our online claims facility.

“The majority of claims have been from people whose properties have been affected by very strong winds, such as loose roof tiles and broken windows, but we’ve also seen a number of claims for damage caused by fallen trees.

STORM CORRIE

“We are monitoring the situation closely, particularly with Storm Corrie due to arrive later today. We are working with our network of suppliers who are already providing support to customers – securing doors and windows, for example – and our field consultants are out and about across the worst affected locations, helping customers and arranging alternative accommodation for people who are unable to stay in their homes.

“To help our customers, we are using technology to help settle claims more quickly, either using desk-based technology to assess damage, or through our storm calculators.

“Our claims experts have already identified claims from vulnerable customers and we are working with our network of suppliers to ensure these claims are given priority.

“With further strong winds forecast, if it’s safe to do so, we’d urge people to check their homes and business properties and take preventative steps to help minimise any damage Storm Corrie may cause.

“If customers have experienced any damage to their properties or vehicles, we’d encourage them to get in touch as soon as possible, using our online claims forms or by calling us on 0345 030 6945.”

Aviva has put together the following advice to help people protect their properties and vehicles:

If it’s safe to do so:

• Examine your roof for any missing / loose tiles or slates. Aviva research suggests roof damage is the most common home issue caused by extreme weather, so it’s important to check yours is in good repair.
• Secure your fences and gates. These are also very susceptible to weather events, particularly strong winds, so ensure posts are sturdy and there are no loose or missing panels.
• Ensure gutters and downpipes are attached securely and clear out your gutters and drains. Leaves and rubbish can quickly build up and weigh gutters down.
• Safely store or secure any garden furniture, ornaments, bikes or children’s toys / outside play equipment, including trampolines, which can easily blow away.
• Make sure all doors and windows are closed.
• If possible, park the car in a garage, or away from large trees.

Customers wishing to make a claim with Aviva can do so by visiting www.aviva.co.uk/help-and-support/claims or by calling 0345 030 6945.