The second storm of this year (Thursday, January 18) has since passed and a careful assessment of the damage can be started. Boerenbusiness made a phone call to a number of insurers.
Adri Witlox, head of agricultural insurance at Interpolis, indicates that approximately 1.200 claims have been received. However, this number is still increasing and is therefore not final.
Damage mainly from livestock farming
Witlox indicates that approximately 75% of the damage comes from the livestock sector. About 25% comes from greenhouse horticulture. This sector mainly concerns the Westland and the Rivierengebied.
"The first damage is estimated at €20 million for the agricultural sector. However, it is still difficult to say, because there are many open ends. For example, in the greenhouses it is still unclear what the damage is, because it depends on the climate; has that survived? Today and this weekend, customers will be visited to look at the damage and it will be determined what measures need to be taken," Witlox said.
Damage causes a lot of work
Topteam received a total of between 200 and 300 damage reports. This ranges from $500 to $3.000. Jaap Roskam, director of Topteam Agrarische Verzekeringen: "It's not about very large damage, but they also provide a lot of work."
Some major damage has also been reported. This mainly concerns damage to roofs and end walls of stables. Roskam also indicates that recovery is often hampered by asbestos on the roof. At that moment, a certified contractor has to be hired, and that makes it expensive.
Prevent worse
Roskam advises to first ensure that further damage is prevented. "I am talking about water damage or consequential damage due to a possible new storm. Many farmers wait for the damage expert to visit, but it is more important that they get to work immediately. This allows us to make a major impact in limiting the injury."
Main photo: Twitter (@dukkie6).
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