NFU Mutual has said farm fires were larger-scale and costlier in nature, sparking calls for farmers to review and update fire prevention measures. It has speculated the rise, up from £80.4m in 2022, could be down to larger-scale fires being reported, as well increased costs for replacement equipment, building materials and labour.
There was a 15% fall in the number of fire claims involving growing crops, buildings and farm equipment reported to NFU Mutual in 2023.
The main causes of farm fire claims were electrical faults, lightning strikes and arson attacks.
The cost of agricultural vehicle fires, which are recorded separately by the company, remained high at an estimated £37.7m in 2023, driven by a rise in the cost of tractor fire claims to £20.4m.
There was a welcome fall in the cost of combine harvester fires however, down from £11.1m in 2022 to an estimated £7.4m in 2023, which the rural insurer has attributed to lower summer temperatures and industry calls for farmers to install fire suppression systems.
NFU Deputy President David Exwood said the report highlighted the significant financial and emotional toll farm fires continued to take on the farming community, and served as a stark reminder of the importance of fire prevention measures. “This alarming increase demonstrates the urgent need for farmers to review their fire prevention measures.
“From maintaining machinery to implementing fire suppression systems, taking proactive steps can help protect farm businesses from such costly and devastating events,” he added.
