Insurance reassurance offered over homes with RAAC

The concrete was found in homes in Aberdeen's Balnagask area

The majority of Association of British Insurers (ABI) members will not cancel insurance policies in homes containing potentially-dangerous concrete in Aberdeen, according to the trade body.

Reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) was found to be in about 500 homes in the Balnagask area of Torry, including 364 council properties.

BBC Scotland News previously learned that some homeowners had been told their houses would no longer be insured.

ABI added that any residents should directly contact their insurer for information about RAAC concerns.

A spokeswoman said insurers would consider the renewal of home insurance cover for properties with RAAC.

The ABI said insurance policies were generally designed to cover damage from events such as storms and floods, but not for what might arise because of building materials.

It said: "They are not intended to cover design or build defects or to replace construction materials that are gradually deteriorating over time.

"So, the replacement of RAAC is not likely to be covered."

The spokeswoman added that anyone who felt unfairly treated by their insurer could raise it through their complaints process and any unsatisfactory outcomes could be taken further with the Financial Ombudsman Service.

Aberdeen City Council said it would support its tenants and engage with owners and privately-rented tenants to keep them informed.

The council's own housing insurance is unaffected, a spokeswoman confirmed.

It contacted its insurer to check the matter after it learned RAAC was in properties in late 2023.