28/01/2025
Are you storm ready?
With so many storms hitting the UK in recent times, here is some advice to consider when preparing for strong winds and heavy rain.
To qualify as a storm for insurance purposes, the weather needs to meet one or more of the following conditions:
- Wind gusting at 48 knots (55mph) and above
- Heavy rainfall with a rate of at least 25mm per hour
- Snow falling to a depth of at least one foot (30cm) in 24 hours
- Hail which can break glass or cause damage to hard surfaces
Reducing the risk of damage to cars:
- Avoid driving unless absolutely necessary, but if you do need to drive then ensure you have an emergency kit in the car.
- Move bins into a sheltered area, away from your car and weigh down if possible to avoid it hitting your car.
- Park your car in a safe space ideally from falling trees and branches.
Drainage and Gutter Maintenance:
Make sure your gutters and drainage are clear and well maintained. If gutters aren’t draining properly, it can cause damage to your roof and walls. It could also result in water damage inside the house.
The roof is one of the most vulnerable areas of a home when it comes to weather damage. It’s a good idea to inspect it regularly, and fix any issues immediately after you identify them.
Check your roof for:
- Loose, cracked or missing tiles
- Damaged flashing, which is the thin metal used to keep your roof watertight
- Any signs of leakage
- You can also check the roof from the inside, particularly if you have an attic. Head up there and look for any signs of water getting in, such as damp areas or mould. If you don’t have an attic, check for damp patches or discolouration on your ceiling.
Usually, flat roofs need more maintenance than pitched roofs, and tend to need more frequent repairs. Try to inspect your flat roof at least twice a year, and after each storm. Be sure to clear any leaves or debris which might hamper the drainage.
If you find any issues with your roof, it’s usually best to get a professional roofer or builder in to fix it. Never take any chances if you’re not entirely confident fixing it yourself.
Garden and Tree Maintenance:
You can try and ensure trees are trim and remove loose branches. This should reduce the risk of them falling or blowing onto your property during storms.
Don't forget to secure things like trampolines. In storms they may be blown away causing potential damage to property or even to people.
What is not covered:
- Fences
- Gates
- Swimming Pools
- Hot tub covers
Now more than ever we all need to consider what we can do to try and safe guard our property to avoid potential damage from storms in the UK.
