Expert warns one simple mistake could cost homeowners significantly this autumn

Now that summer has officially come to an end, homeowners are bracing for wet and potentially damaging weather conditions. According to new data, millions of households could be at risk of flooding.

The latest research from the Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs reveals that two-thirds of households in designated flood risk zones are unaware that they fall into this category. This translates to thousands of families that could unknowingly be paying for home insurance that will not protect them if severe weather hits.

Holly Andrews, managing director at KIS Finance, says that failing to disclose flood risk to your insurer could invalidate your policy altogether.

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“Far too many homeowners don’t realise the importance of understanding their property’s flood risk, and unfortunately, this can have devastating consequences.

“If your home falls within a designatedflood risk zone, this can have a direct impact on your insurance cover. Failing to disclose this crucial detail when arranging or renewing your policy could leave you dangerously exposed, as insurers may refuse to pay out on claims or even void the policy altogether.”

Holly warns UK homeowners they could lose their financial safety net “right at the moment you need it most”. She also emphasises that flooding does more than damage your home, it can force Brits to dip into their savings or take out debt to cover repairs when their insurance coverage falls short.

She encourages Brits to check their property’s risk status - which is a free process. Holly explains: “The Environment Agency provides detailed online flood maps that allow homeowners to search by postcode and see if they fall into an at-risk category.

“This quick check gives you the information you need to make sure yourinsurance policy is accurate, valid, and offers the protection you expect.”

If you do find that your home is in a flood risk area, you should inform your insurer and consider updating your coverage. She says it may increase your premium but that it could save you in the long run.

“What many don’t realise is that rejected claims can affect your ability to secure insurance in the future, potentially limiting your options for years to come,” warns Holly. She concludes: “It’s always better to know your risk and be fully protected than to discover too late that your cover won’t pay out."

Clearing your gutters, servicing your boilers, and taking reasonable safety measures to protect your home from burglaries are other ways in which you can avoid insurance disputes or rejected claims in the future.