With a major incident in Suffolk declared following a wildfire which broke out on Dunwich Heath, and a number of additional active wildfires across the UK, the ABI shares advice for anyone affected.

With a major incident declared in Suffolk, people are understandably concerned for themselves and their property. It’s vital to put safety first and follow the advice of local authorities and emergency services.

“Supporting customers who have suffered damage from fires, including wildfires, is what insurance is there for. Our members are on hand to support affected customers, so if your property has been damaged, speak to your insurer as soon as possible. They will be able to offer help and advice on next steps.

Louise Clark

General Insurance Policy Manager

• The most important thing is to stay safe. Monitor official warnings closely and follow guidance from the Fire and Rescue Service, Local Authority or other emergency services. 
• If your property has been affected, contact your insurer as soon as it is safe to do so. They will be able to explain the claims process, provide practical support and help you understand what assistance may be available under your policy. 
• Standard home insurance policies typically cover damage caused by fire, including wildfires, and your insurer can also offer support and advice to help you get back on your feet. This can include making emergency payments and helping to repair or rebuild damaged properties.  
• Cover for items in your garden may vary. For example, some policies include cover for garden furniture, trees, hedges, lawns, and fences, while others do not. If you’re not sure what’s included in your policy, speak to your insurer who can help. 
• Most home insurance policies will also provide alternative accommodation where a property has been damaged and is no longer safe to live in. 
• If you are evacuated as a precaution and your property has not been damaged, temporary accommodation is typically arranged through the Local Authority.  
• If you’re unsure exactly what is covered in your policy, check your documents or speak to your insurer.  
• If you do not have insurance, you will not be able to make a claim for damage to your property. However, anyone affected should contact their local authority or the Red Cross, which may be able to support following a fire. 

• Contact your insurer or broker as soon as possible. 
• Depending on the circumstances and the cover in place, your insurer or broker may be able to provide support such as emergency payments, loss adjusters and assistance with repairs and reinstatement to help you recover as quickly as possible. 
• Many business insurance policies cover fire damage to insured buildings, stock, equipment and machinery, although cover will depend on the terms, limits and exclusions of the policy. 
• If you have business interruption insurance, it may cover loss of income and certain ongoing costs if your business is forced to close because of damage to insured premises. Some business interruption policies may also help cover the cost of temporary alternative premises while repairs are carried out. 
• Depending on your policy, some will also cover costs if your business cannot operate because of evacuation orders, road closures or restricted access to the area.  
• If you’re not sure what is covered, check your policy or speak to your insurer or broker. 

• Speak to your insurer before carrying out significant clean-up or repair work unless immediate action is needed to protect people or prevent further damage. 
• Keep records of any damage, including photographs where possible, and retain receipts for emergency expenses or temporary measures.
• Unless they are a safety hazard, do not dispose of damaged items until your insurer has advised you.

You can find more information and frequently asked questions on fire damage on the ABI's website here.