Insurance industry advises flood victims to check policies

The Irish Insurance Federation has advised victims of overnight flooding to contact their insurers immediately to make sure that they are covered for damage.

Millions of euros worth of damage has already been caused in parts of Cork, Waterford, Wicklow, Wexford and Dublin and further floods are expected later today.

Sources in the insurance industry say it could be up to a month before the financial impact can be estimated.

Michael Horan of the IIF said most of those affected should be covered by their policies.

"Household insurance policies usually cover damage caused by flooding. Insurance companies usually also pay for the cost of temporary repairs so we advise people that you should keep copies of receipts,” he said.

"They'll also pay for the cost of alternative accommodation if the house becomes uninhabitable.

"Damage to cars is covered under comprehensive motor insurance policies. The overriding advice is to contact your insurance company or broker as soon as possible."