Explosion claims will take time
Business owners and residents affected by the explosion in Shrewsbury will need to be patient when it comes to claiming for their losses.
Dave Williams, of Henshalls Insurance Brokers in the county town, said contacting insurers at this time of year could prove to be particularly difficult.
"There is always an increase in claims in the early months of the year anyway, usually due to bad weather, and a rise in the number of accidents on the roads.
"So anyone who has been affected by the explosion will need to be patient which of course is easier said than done at such a stressful time."
Dave said despite the difficulties, business owners, residents and car owners caught up in the incident should try to notify their insurer as soon as possible.
"If you're a tenant of a property, check if your insurance policy has glass cover included. And get the property boarded up as soon as possible to ensure it's weatherproof, particularly given the forecast for very cold weather as it's vital to protect against burst pipes."
Dave said motorists with vehicles that had been damaged should check their insurance policies too, as fully comprehensive insurance should include glass cover and usually the provision of a courtesy vehicle too.
"Businesses with properties damaged by the explosion, or who are prevented from reaching their premises by the road closures in the area, should check the conditions of their cover as soon as possible.
"Their policy should include a 'denial of access' clause under the business interruption section - this is to cover for loss of profit during the time that customers cannot get to your premises while the area is cordoned off.
"The best advice though is to check the terms and conditions of your cover carefully, and keep your insurers informed every step of the way.
"A situation like this can change daily, and it's vital to maintain regular contact with your insurance broker too in order to avoid any possible delays with your insurers."
