Environment, Global warming is no storm in a teacup for UK homeowners


by ISLA CAMPBELL - Date: 2008-11-05 - Word Count: 555 Share This!

It's probably fair to say that global warming is one of the most debated topics of the 21st century. And, whilst most people would probably agree that global warming is indeed happening, much of the debate has centred on whether humans are to blame, or whether it's simply nature running its course.

But at any rate, many scientists believe that the effects of global warming are being witnessed already with numerous extreme weather events happening around the globe which have resulted in droughts, floods and subsequently, a higher incidence of disease in many of the world's poorer countries.

Moreover, whilst the UK may be synonymous with rain for many people, it traditionally has never experienced extreme weather events such as hurricanes and cyclones. But, the floods that swept many parts of the UK throughout the summers of 2007 and 2008 may be a hint at what's to come if climate change predictions are anything to go by.

However, even though many homes were completely destroyed by the UK floods, research has shown that more than a third of all UK homes remain uninsured, with as much as £214 billion of property directly at risk to future flooding. Indeed, 2008 has been a particularly turbulent year for storms in general, with hurricanes Ike and Gustav in particular causing substantial damage throughout the USA and Caribbean, with the effects of them being felt as far away as the UK.

Of course, the weather is one thing that humans have no control over and the widespread destruction it can cause from time to time is simply a part of life. But, that doesn't mean to say that measures can't be put in place to help minimise the long-term effect an extreme weather event could have on people's lives.

This desire to address the issue of global warming and climate change has led to the formation of Climate Wise, which is essentially a group of leading organisations from within the insurance industry that conduct research and analysis on the potential risks of climate change. And, its main aim is to ultimately, reduce the risks global warming poses to the UK.

But in terms of taking immediate action to reduce the risks that storms and floods pose, the simplest solution may be to ensure adequate home insurance is in place. This not only covers the structure of the house, but also all of the contents too.

And, for those who already have insurance in place, then it's certainly worth requesting a new UK home insurance quote. Furthermore, it will certainly pay to scrutinize the small print, because it's possible that the contents of the home have increased in value since the original policy was taken out, thus meaning they are now ‘under-valued'.

So, whether it's down to human activity or simply part of nature's climate cycle, it certainly seems that global warming is more than a storm in a teacup for homeowners across the globe, which is why it's wise to ensure adequate home insurance is in place. Clearly, by spending a little money now, it could save a lot of money should the worst happen.

Isla Campbell writes for a digital marketing agency. This article has been commissioned by a client of said agency. This article is not designed to promote, but should be considered professional content.


Related Tags: global warming, climate change, uk home insurance, home insurance in the uk

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