The Association of British Insurers (ABI) predicts insured damage from the flooding in England last week is expected to reach £1.1 billion ($2.4 billion).

London-based ABI says insurers are working round the clock to help customers who have been flooded. It estimates 27,000 homes and 5000 businesses have been affected by the floods and storms.

Director-General Stephen Haddrill says the ABI is keeping the Government informed of the situation and has requested meetings with relevant members of the new government.

UK insurers have put their crisis action plans into place, redeployed staff from around the country and brought in equipment from abroad.

Extra staff are contacting customers by phone wherever possible and visiting community centres to identify customers who have been evacuated.