Storm Bert: Insurance premium challenges for flood victims

Businesses across Wales have suffered significant damage, including David Kyle’s marketing business in Nantgarw, Rhondda Cynon Taf.

He arrived at his office to find the water had risen to above his ankles after the river Taff burst its banks on Sunday.

But the business owner said he has decided along with the landlord of his building not to claim on insurance due to the fear of how much the premium would rise.

“We are with flood risk specialists but it was hard enough trying to get insurance the last time around after Storm Dennis, so we’ve decided not to make a claim on this occasion.

“We’ve taken up the carpets and all the damage to things like plug sockets will have to be repaired. This is like the third time in five or six years to have new carpets,” he said.

Mr Kyle said a few neighbouring businesses have suffered even more significantly, including one nearby family flooring company.

“I went to see them and just saw their faces. The water level was even higher for them. It’s just awful,” he said.