Given the devastating impact flooding has had in many areas across Northern Ireland over recent months, flooding is very much on the agenda for businesses and homeowners.

According to the Northern Ireland Flood Risk Assessment around 45,000 properties are currently at flood risk. The main factors of flooding locally include heavy rainfall, storm surges, flash flooding, river overflow and poor drainage.

Supporting infrastructure as well as climate change have their parts to play.  Climate change is influencing weather patterns globally, and the UK is no exception. 

Met Office figures show that the UK is now 9% wetter than it was in the 1960’s with extreme weather four times more likely than it was 50 years ago. The Met Office reported that Co Armagh and Co Down experienced the wettest October on record.

Niall Quinn, Director, Gullion Ltd said, “Flooding can have a devastating impact with repair costs escalating into the tens of thousands. Whilst flood insurance is standard for many, policyholders should read the small print of their policy as the levels of cover can vary considerably. Some insurance policies may have limitations on coverage for specific types of flooding including the scope of the water damage so it’s important to know if you have the right level of cover in place.”

Gov.uk suggests that one in six properties in the UK is currently at flood risk. While climate change will bring wetter winters, it is anticipated that one third more rainfall is expected by 2070.

If you are unsure if your home or business is at risk of flooding you can learn more about flood risk areas and see an area’s flood risk history by using Flood Maps NI.

In the unfortunate event where you need to make a claim, contact Gullion Ltd Loss Assessors and Surveyors on 028 3082 8838. Regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland and authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority we will negotiate the best settlement on your behalf to ensure you achieve your full entitlement, under the terms and conditions of your policy.  To reduce stress and streamline your claim, restoration works is an optional extra service which we also provide.

Gullion Ltd – you’re number one choice for insurance claims.  For more, Gullion Ltd can also be found on Facebook, LinkedIn, Google, YouTube and Twitter.