MORE than a fifth of county homes could see the cost of flood insurance soar, MPs have been told.

With more than 55,000 homes in the county considered at risk of flooding, changes to the way flood cover is worked out could hurt householders’ pockets, says a campaign group.

In June 2013, the umbrella agreement between house insurers and the Government which pools flood risk making it affordable – known as the statement of principles – will end and will not be replaced.

This means the onus will fall more on householders to invest in flood protection measures even if only to keep their premiums affordable.

Worcester MP Robin Walker and Harriett Baldwin, MP for West Worcestershire, were at a House of Commons briefing to hear more on the issues about flood protection from the Know Your Flood Risk campaign.

Mr Walker said: “It is vitally important homeowners investigate their risks and take the necessary precautions to protect their homes which include flood defences made by local firms.

“It could make the difference between being able to find available and affordable insurance or not.”

The campaign’s chief executive is Mary Dhonau who was present to launch a free guide entitled ‘Homeowner’s Guide to Flood Resilience’.

She said: “Homeowners are now expected to protect their homes from being flooded but there is very little practical information available to help them do so.

“I am delighted that the campaign has supported me in my quest to support those at risk by printing this much-needed guide.”

Mr Walker said: “The horrendous effect of flooding should never be underestimated. Many people who have not been affected by flooding often think that, once the flood water has drained away, then life returns to normal.

“This is simply not the case as I saw when visiting flood victims in Worcester after the 2007 floods.

“Following the devastating floods, many victims lived in caravans for up to two years before they were able to move back into their homes.

“Flooding doesn’t just destroy homes; it can greatly affect lives for many, many months.”

For more details or to download the guide, visit knowyourfloodrisk.co.uk