Extent of tragedy revealed after Boxing Day blaze

A fire which swept through a Croydon housing block, on December 26th, has highlighted the need for comprehensive home insurance.

Only three of the 12, now homeless, families, had contents insurance, which has left the council having to support the former residents.

The building in Marston Way, Norbury had to be demolished after the fire left it in a dangerous condition.

Councillor Dudley Mead, cabinet member for housing at Croydon council, told the Croydon Guardian: "It really was a most ferocious fire and when I saw what it had done I must say I was shocked.

"When you are faced with tenants without any funds or possessions then the burden falls on the council. This is without doubt the biggest fire I have seen in all my time in Croydon."

Research by the Nationwide Building Society has highlighted how homeowners undervalue the value of their home contents. They warned that even replacing items to the value of £20,000 could lead to severe financial difficulties.

25/01/2008 12:20:53