The Fixer logoHave you been left out of pocket due to poor service or sharp practice? Do you have a money problem that won't go away?

It can seem impossible to get a fair result when you are battling a large, faceless organisation alone. But never fear! The AOL Money Fixer is here to help.


This week, she tells a homeowner whose property was devastated by floods in June how to find cheaper home insurance.

Dear Fixer,
My house was one of the many hit by floods in June this year. It was a truly horrible experience that has meant replacing carpets throughout the ground floor, as well as numerous electrical goods, and repainting several rooms.

Fortunately, the nightmare is almost over now, and our insurers, Aviva, have been very helpful with our claim.

The problem is that, now our policy has come up for renewal, we have been told that we will have to pay about 20% more for the same level of cover - presumably as a result of our flood claim this year.

I had planned to stay with Aviva because they have been so good about everything relating to the flood. However, I am a bit shocked by the huge increase in the premium we will have to pay

I am also worried that all other insurers will charge us a similar amount due to the recent history of our property.

Is there anything we can do to cut the cost?

N Brown, Newcastle

Dear Mrs Brown,
If your home is now considered to be in a flood risk area, the sad fact is that your home insurance is probably going to be more expensive from now on - no matter what you do.

This is particularly true as you had never made a claim on your Aviva policy in the past and were therefore benefiting from a no claims discount.

There are, however, still some steps you can take to keep your home insurance costs to a minimum.

And the best way to fight back against premium hikes is to compare the quote you have received with the rest of the market. After all, rival insurers will still compete for your business – albeit at a higher price.

Whether you decide to stay with Aviva or not, it is also worth asking them for some advice on what flood prevention products could help in your case.

Installing these can slash your premium by 10% or more - not to mention protect your home should more flooding occur.

The Fixer

Whatever your financial problem, write to themoneyfixer@aim.com and The AOL Money Fixer will get on the case.

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