Flood damage / contamination

A question about : Flood damage / contamination

Have got all our stuff in storage while we move house, just got a letter from the storage company informing us that due to last weeks floods 3 out of our 6 containers have been contaminated by the flood water.

Now the question is what should I reasonably expect, clearly soft furnishings / electricals are going to be ruined but what happens in respect of other furniture items will they be cleaned? Should I allow them to be cleaned or should I reasonably expect replacement of all damaged items?

Best answers:

• my imediate advice would be to go to the storage unit if local and view your items personally if this is not possible request them to take photos and forward them to you...
  The damage will be covered under there insurance however you need to check if there is a maximum amount you can claim firs...
• I'm going tomorrow to see what the damage is.
  I need to drag out the paperwork tonight to see what the limit of cover is.
  If it has been contaminated with raw sewage etc. would the insurers insist on cleaning it or should I push for replacements (would they replace or try and fob me off with cleaning)
• You need to check how this is covered first.
  If you are claiming under a policy sold to you by the storage company, what is the basis of cover, new for old or market value only? Is their a max limit and single article limit?
  Alternatively, if you advised your own insurers the items were in storage, they may have a cover restriction. Read your policy docs for each and see which has the best cover to pursue the claim.
• you may find you will need to claim both the storage co/ your own
• Before you go to the storage co it may be worth checking your home contents insurance policy to see if it covers items held in storage.
  As to whether you will get a good clean or replacement, that depends on on both the policy and the extent of the damage. When you signed up for storage they should have supplied you with details of the insurance that you were getting (if any) and that should tell you about their replacement policy.
  Good luck with it all