It’s the caravan season right now and although the UK has been unusually devoid of rain for the last 2 months or so, there will be storms and flash flooding. It’s just the weather. Here’s some useful advice from Compass to caravan owners;
As parts of the UK continue to experience unusually long periods of dry weather, Compass, a specialist provider of caravan and leisure insurance, is warning caravan owners of an increased risk of flash flooding due to dried-out ground conditions.
While sunshine and dry spells might seem like a welcome break for holidaymakers and caravan site operators, the parched ground may not absorb heavy rainfall when it finally arrives. This significantly increases the likelihood of flash flooding – a sudden and severe weather event that can cause major damage to caravans and campsite infrastructure.
Kevin Minnear, Head of Underwriting at Compass, adds: “The ground becomes hard and compacted after extended dry periods, which means when heavy rain does come, the water simply runs off the surface rather than soaking in. This runoff can lead to dangerous flash floods, even in areas that aren’t typically considered high risk.”
As a result, Compass is advising caravan owners to check their insurance policies to ensure they have adequate flood cover, particularly if they store or pitch their vehicles in low-lying or flood-prone areas.
Flash floods can lead to extensive damage to vehicles, contents, and external fittings such as awnings or decking. In some cases, flooding may even cause structural damage to static caravans, making them uninhabitable.
Precautions and advice
To minimise the risk of flood damage, Compass suggests caravan owners and site managers take the following precautions:
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Stay informed: Keep an eye on local weather alerts, especially if storms or heavy rain are forecast after a dry spell.
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Choose pitch locations carefully: Avoid setting up in natural dips, valleys, or close to rivers and streams.
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Elevate valuables: Store important items off the floor where possible and make sure vents and electronics are not exposed to low-lying water.
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Have an emergency plan: Know your evacuation route and have emergency essentials ready in case of sudden flooding.
“Many of our policies offer protection against weather-related damage, but not all insurance is the same,” Minnear continued. “We strongly recommend that customers review their documents or speak with their provider to understand exactly what is and isn’t covered.”
Compass is keen to reassure customers that, with the right level of cover and awareness, the risks can be managed, allowing everyone to enjoy their holidays with peace of mind.
For more information on specialist caravan and leisure insurance, visit compass.co.uk
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