Flood-affected pubs still battling for damage relief

Barry Jenner, licensee at the Walnut Tree in Yalding, Kent, received a “nasty shock” when he was told by his insurance provider that he wasn’t covered for loss of trade after the pub lost power for 48 hours over Christmas.

According to Jenner, his insurer won’t settle the claim after it emerged that the power cut was due to a downed power line, and not a flooded sub-station as previously thought.

He explained: “I lost two days’ trade and all my fresh food went to waste, and they won’t pay out because they say it was the wrong kind of power-cut. I have sent them a stinging letter, and I’m prepared to take this further.”

'Wary'​

In Chiswell, Dorset, co-owner Amanda Broughton-South said she is submitting a claim for £17,000 after waves crashed through her beachside pub, the Cove House Inn, in January.

Despite being disappointed to learn that her garden benches were not covered, being classified as moveable items, Broughton-South was “hopeful” that the claim would be settled soon. However, she added: “I’m wary that insurance companies are quick to take your money, but not so quick to pay out.”

Darren Matthew, who manages the privately leased White Bear in Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire, which was flooded in January, has received alternative assistance after insurers refused to cover the pub after flood damage back in 2007.

Grant​

He said: “We’ve been fortunate to have been given a £2,500 local authority grant. We’ve also received business rate relief, and I’m planning to apply for a central government repair and renew grant, which will go towards better flood defences.”

Through its Support and Care service, the Licensed Trade Charity (LTC) said it has so far provided assistance to four flood-affected pubs.
According to marketing manager Chrissy Longley, all enquiries where an emergency response is necessary can now be dealt with immediately over the telephone, without callers having to complete an application form and provide supporting documentation.