The Association of Trinidad and Tobago Insurance Companies (ATTIC) has said it was still too early to estimate the scale of losses in Diego Martin and environs after Saturday's devastating floods.

In a media release yesterday the insurance groups vice president Baliram Sawh said he anticipated it would "equal or exceed" those from last year, particularly motor vehicles.

Sawh urged affected policy holders to contact their insurance company or brokers as soon as possible and alert them of any potential claims.

"Claims forms for most companies can be downloaded from the company's website. Please present bills, photographs or some proof of ownership of lost items to support your claims," he said.

"If your building or vehicle has been damaged, please submit two estimates for repairs and submit these to the company with a claim form. Expect to hear from the insurance adjuster who will visit the location where the loss occurred to verify the particulars and cause of such damage," he said.

Sawh said policyholders should note that all policies require the policyholder to bear the first part of a loss (excess or deductible) normally either one per cent or two per cent of the sum insured for building and contents and three per cent to five per cent of the sum insured for motor vehicles.

"We hope that in the review of the response to this flood, the authorities will include a disaster alert system to monitor river levels and notify persons in surrounding areas and motorways of the potential danger," he said.

"We trust that with this latest disaster, protection of the environment and enforcement of laws will guide planners, builders and homeowners alike," he added.

ATTIC also extended its condolences to the families of Solomon Britto and Everald Bentham who lost their lives in Saturday's floods.

"We know that local authorities have been stretched in trying to reach the many affected communities and congratulate the first responders for their quick action in rescue and clean up efforts," he said.