Homeowners should make sure they search for free and impartial advice before signing up to third parties offering to help settle insurance claims.

This is the opinion of floods recovery minister John Healey - who says that people in flood-hit communities who accept help from third parties could end up short of the funds they need to fully repair their damaged homes.

Mr Healey has published a number of "top tips" for home insurance claimants. He reminds them that they don't have to "pay a middleman", that they can claim directly and free of charge from their insurer and that, if you do choose to accept help from a third party, make sure that they are regulated by the Financial Services Authority.

"It is important people know where to access free and impartial advice so I'm arranging for practical information to be made available in flood affected communities," Mr Healey commented.

"So there is no need to use a 'middleman' who might offer to settle claims in return for a cut of the payout. But where people choose to do this it is important they understand this could leave them short of the money they need to fully repair their damaged homes and replace prized possessions.

"My message is clear - if in doubt speak to the Financial Services Authority, Association of British Insurers or the Citizen's Advice Service. They are there to help."

Homes and businesses have been abandoned in the North Yorkshire town of Filey today (Thursday) after the latest outbreak of flooding to hit the UK.