After the flood - act quickly and correctly!
The continuous rain at the end of May and the beginning of June has devastating consequences: In Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria, water masses are flooding inhabited and cultivated areas. Many of our customers are also affected.
Since the end of May, precipitation has fallen in Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria. Rivers, streams and soils could no longer absorb the persistently high amounts of precipitation, as there had already been unusually heavy rainfall in the previous weeks and months. The consequences are immense. Houses, nursing homes and industrial plants were flooded by the water. The extreme weather event has even claimed lives, seriously injured people and caused extensive damage to property, real estate, production facilities, office buildings and storage rooms. Insurers estimate the damage at around two billion euros. However, this is only a preliminary forecast, as the German Insurance Association (GDV) reports. But what should be done in an emergency to repair damage as quickly as possible and minimize loss of earnings?
When the building is underwater
Kerstin Schneller, head of the Ecclesia Group's industrial claims department, advises calm and level-headed action in this case: “It is important that the affected customers act correctly. They should be aware that they have to act quickly, but also that they are obliged to document the damage.” Photos and videos are helpful in this case. Due to the catastrophic situation, not every claim can be assessed by an expert. In this case, the expert recommends keeping precise records of the individual steps of the clean-up operation. A list should also be drawn up of the damaged production facilities, machinery, warehouses, office space, operating resources, materials, goods and stocks, and it is imperative that photos be taken of the items that have to be disposed of immediately. The customer is obliged to provide evidence.
Review of insurance policies and reporting of damage
As soon as the initial shock has been overcome, those affected should contact their customer advisor to review the insurance policies together: Does the building insurance include a natural hazard module that covers other natural hazards such as flooding due to heavy rain? The building insurance covers damage that has occurred directly to the building. If the furnishings are affected, then the inventory insurance applies – here too, it is necessary to check whether protection against other natural hazards is included. If vehicles from the fleet are damaged, motor insurance is important.
Of course, the Ecclesia Group's customer advisors are on hand to help. “Our employees are always approachable and happy to support you,” says Kerstin Schneller.
The first clean-up
When the water level drops, the rooms should be adequately ventilated and dirt and mud removed before everything dries. Since it is highly unlikely that an expert will be able to assess the situation on site in every case, it is best for those affected to contact the Ecclesia Group. It has contact details for various specialist companies that can support the clean-up efforts. If these service providers are also working at full capacity, it is advisable, in case of doubt, to document the damage photographically in consultation with the respective account manager and then start with the clean-up. Together and on the basis of good documentation, Ecclesia will then also find solutions with the insurers. If companies are contracted to carry out the work, it is advisable to have an approximate estimate of the expected costs made and to obtain the insurer's approval.
The Ecclesia Group contact persons are there for you. We will support you in this extraordinary situation or advise you if you have any questions about insurance coverage.