Why has the cost of home insurance suddenly gone through the roof?

Extreme weather, from wind damage to storms causing floods, has meant more homeowners have had to make a claim. Photograph: Joe Giddens/PA

After seven years living in his flat in Hove, East Sussex, Tony Mollett was used to paying about £100 for his contents insurance. Then, in April, he got a renewal notice for £1,076 – 10 times the cost of his last premium.

Nothing had changed about the level of cover, nor had he made any claims which might help explain why it had soared. His broker, Swinton Insurance, told him it was the best it could offer.