Property claims cost UK insurers a record £6.1 billion ($11.63 billion) last year, according to the industry’s peak body.

Weather-related claims were the main driver, up 14% on 2024 to £1.2 billion ($2.28 billion), the Association of British Insurers says.

Storm-related damage totalled £244 million ($465 million), up 32%, and the average storm payout grew by £750 ($1430) to £2450 ($4672).

The ABI says domestic flood claims increased 38% to £312 million ($595 million) and the average payout to homeowners climbed 60% to £30,000 ($57,214).

“Government action is essential to protect communities from the growing impact of extreme weather,” director of general insurance policy Chris Bose said. “This includes stronger planning rules to stop building in high‑risk flood areas and designing homes with resilience in mind.”

The ABI data also shows domestic subsidence payouts rose 10% to a record £307 million ($585 million) last year.