With the high levels of rain we are seeing, now is the time for homeowners to check their insurance policies and ensure they have adequate cover for flooding. It's essential to check that the policy covers damages and losses to the property itself but also, critically, that there is enough budget allocated to adequately cover the cost of renting a property should you need to be re-housed.

Around Henley, for example, this means a budget of up to £2,000 per calendar month for a three-bedroom house; up to £4,000 per calendar month for a four-bedroom house; and for larger homes, anywhere up to or in excess of £6,000 per calendar month. If you have pets, the choice of accommodation on offer may be limited and you may have to pay a higher deposit.

We have come across claimants who have ended up in battles with insurance companies because the standard or size of accommodation covered under their policy has not been adequate and, in some cases, they have had to bear the financial difference themselves.

If you find yourself in the unfortunate position of having been flooded, contact your insurers immediately and take your lead from them, as they may not pay out if you stray from their advice. Most will have 24-hour emergency help lines which can provide advice on the next steps.

If alternative accommodation is likely to be required, useful questions to ask include whether the policy includes a budget for temporary furnishing (most rental homes in the area come unfurnished); whether the policy covers the cost of an agent’s tenancy set up charges? Who will be responsible for paying for the Tenancy Agreement, references, and so on? Will the insurance company be handling everything, or do they expect you to? Who will be paying the deposit?

You may think it will take some time, but provided the right checks are in place and the property you are looking to move to is vacant and ready for occupation, you should be able to facilitate a prompt move within a matter of days.

For homeowners looking for temporary accommodation, try to find a property close to the home you are leaving. While renovation works are being undertaken, you will want to monitor progress and this is a lot easier if you're living close by.

Generally, tenancy agreements offer a minimum term of six months. However, on occasion, some landlords are flexible and shorter terms can be negotiated. Some insurers will pay rent in advance for the term of the tenancy and this tends to be looked upon more favourably by landlords, and can make all the difference if the need is for a shorter term tenancy.

With short turnaround times, and with such little notice of the need for rented accommodation, ensure you rent through a reputable ARLA licensed agent. By using a properly qualified agent you can be assured of appropriate paperwork, proper handling of the finances and accurate advice. Also, choose an agent with a range of different properties to rent – choice will be limited given the circumstances so only the busiest agents will be more likely to secure accommodation at short notice.

Even if you haven't been flooded this time, it's essential to review your insurance cover at least annually to ensure that, should the worst happen, adequate cover is in place.

Further information

To discuss your insurance requirements or for more details on fees, contact Savills Services