The Federation Francaise des Societes d’Assurances said insurers are responding to policy-holders as quickly as possible

French insurers have mobilised to help victims of the hurricane-force winds that struck the south-west of the country on Saturday, according to the French insurer association.

The Federation Francaise des Societes d’Assurances said that insurers had responded to policy-holders as quickly as possible.

In a statement the FFSA noted that three types of insurance would respond to the event. Insurance for building damage would cover the costs of the storm, including wind and rain, it said. That type of insurance does not require the event to be classed as a ‘natural disaster’, according to the association.

Vehicles may be covered if the policy includes coverage for damage or fire. And personal injuries would be covered by individual accident insurance.

At least 15 people died, including four children, after powerful gales swept across Spain and France on Saturday.