An MP has called on flood victims to be given more help rather than having their insurance premiums increased.
Residents who were flooded across Tadcaster and Kirkby Wharf in North Yorkshire in 2012, found their premiums were increased or they were told their insurance was no longer valid.
Nigel Adams, MP for Selby and Ainsty, has urged the Government to take action to make sure those vulnerable to flooding are protected for the future.
“Flood prevention is complex and expensive because the water has to go somewhere,” he said.
“Action has to be taken all year round to ensure that rivers are kept clear and flood banks are maintained in good order.”
Mr Adams said a number of his constituents who were flooded in 2012 have experienced increased insurance premiums but he believes a number of schemes could help protect properties.
“I would encourage any community that has suffered from flooding in the past to set up a Flood Group and to engage with the Environment Agency and with North Yorkshire County Council to get problems addressed and prevention measures in place,” he added.
“However in a situation where the worst does occur it is important that homeowners are not penalised by not being able to get insurance cover.
“It is essential that flood insurance is available and that premiums are not made excessive. This is something that I have raised in Parliament and in a recent answer the Government confirmed that “insurers will not decline to cover those who already hold flood insurance with them”.
“This is important and I would ask that anybody who has had his present insurer decline to continue to provide cover for flood insurance should get in touch.”