What should I do if I need to make a storm damage insurance claim?
If a storm has damaged your home we're here to help you through it. First, check that everyone in your house is safe and contact the emergency services if there is any immediate danger.
When you're ready, submit your claim online if you spot any damage. From there we'll handle the claim with you and keep everything as simple and stress free as possible. We will check things such as recent weather conditions in your area to help support your claim, using WeatherNet data tailored to your specific location*.
Here’s how we’ll help you get things sorted:
- Submit your claim online or call us and we’ll get the process started**. We’ll guide you through each step clearly, answer any questions you may have, and aim to make the experience as straightforward and stress-free as possible.
- Take a few photos of the damage before clearing up. This helps us assess the damage quickly and move your claim forward.
- Keep damaged items where possible. We may need to check them before anything is thrown away
- Need urgent repairs? Go ahead and arrange temporary fixes to prevent further damage, we’ll talk you through what’s appropriate and what we would cover
For more detail you can visit our home insurance claims page or speak to us and we'll take it from there!
*We can use this data alongside an assessment of your property's condition to help figure out what damage a storm could cause
**Storm damage claims are assessed in line with the Association of British Insurers (ABI) definition of a storm.
How can I prevent storm damage?
It’s always a good idea to keep your home well-maintained. Regular upkeep helps prevent damage and ensures you’re fully covered if a storm hits.
1. Make sure your roof is in good repair
It’s a good idea to check the condition of your roof regularly, but it’s especially important before a storm. Strong winds can unsettle roof tiles, and heavy snowfall can put weight and pressure on the roof, causing it to sag. If your roof needs repairs, assess what’s needed and have it completed before the storm hits.
2. Clean your rain gutters
During a storm, debris can build up in your rain gutters and prevent the water from flowing normally. Once they’re clear, make sure they’re fitted securely.
3. Give the trees a trim
If you’re worried that a stray branch could break off and cause damage to your home, it could be time to do some tree trimming. Get rid of any branches that seem loose or likely to be hazardous, and make sure that you’ll be safe if the winds are strong enough to topple any of the trees.
4. Secure your windows
Make sure that your windows can shut securely and are sealed properly to prevent any excess water from leaking in.
5. Unplug electronics
Protect your electronics from potential power surges by unplugging them before a storm.
Storm Damage examples
| You're likely covered if: | You wouldn't usually be covered for |
|---|
- A well-maintained roof is damaged in a storm, leading to issues like damage in your loft conversion
| - Damage to fences, gates or hedges
|
- A tree in your garden is uprooted during severe weather and causes damage (for example, falling onto a neighbouring conservatory)
| - Problems caused by wear and tear or poor maintenance (for example, if your roof was already in poor condition before the storm)
|
- Storm conditions let water into your home, damaging things like furniture or carpets
| - Damage to gardens or items that were left outside
|
- Electrical items inside your home are damaged directly because of the storm
| - Water entering your home where there’s no clear evidence of storm or flood conditions
|
- Home contents are damaged due to things like a broken window or a roof leak caused by severe weather
| |
Claims are always subject to your policy terms and conditions, including signs of wear and tear or poor maintenance.
