Storm damage insurance

What is storm damage insurance?

Weather and storm damage is typically covered by buildings and contents home insurance. The weather in the UK can be unpredictable, to say the least! But you should have some degree of cover included in your home insurance policy as standard.

This can protect you against any costs relating to repairs or rebuilding work. It's more common than you think, and it accounts for a large amount of home insurance claim payouts.

In fact, a record £585 million was paid out for damage as a result of weather in 2024, according to the Association of British Insurers (ABI). So having insurance could definitely be worth it.

Does house insurance cover storm damage?

Yes, most buildings or contents home insurance policies provide you with some level of cover against storm damage and bad weather.

The extent of cover you'll have available to you typically depends on your policy. It's not uncommon for exclusions, for example, to vary between insurance providers. So it's always worth checking over your policy before buying to make sure you're getting the cover you need.

Regardless, you should be able to claim for necessary repairs or rebuilding work as a consequence of damage caused by a storm or bad weather.

What storm damage can I claim for?

It depends on what you're looking to claim for. A buildings home insurance policy usually covers the structure of your home. This generally includes the roof, windows, doors, walls, ceilings, etc.

So, let's say high winds during a storm blow off several roof tiles. You'll be able to claim for repairs through your buildings insurance policy. However, an insurer can reject your claim if there's evidence you haven't maintained your roof properly or if there are signs of general wear and tear.

On the other hand, if torrential rain leaks through your home and damages any personal belongings, for example, you should be able to claim through your contents insurance policy.

Your policy should offer financial protection in the event of water damage, wind damage, power outages, frozen pipes, damage caused by falling debris, including trees, and more.

What isn't covered?

Unfortunately, there's no universal list of exclusions. So, the best way to find out is by comparing different policies before buying.

Exclusions can vary between insurers, but there are many in common, such as:

• Fences and gates
• Anything that hasn't been properly maintained or is affected by general wear and tear

You may have accidental damage included in your policy as standard, but if not, you won't be able to claim for this type of damage. However, you could have the option of buying this as an add-on through your home insurance policy.

What if my property damages someone else's?

Storms can cause havoc and, in some instances, put you in a position whereby your property inadvertently causes damage to a neighbour's home.

Let's say a tree on your property falls during a storm and crashes into your neighbour's shed, for example. You're generally responsible in this situation. But a home insurance policy will typically only cover your own property.

Your neighbour won't be able to claim through your home insurance policy and vice versa. In this instance, your neighbour would have to claim through their own home insurance policy. You will be liable to negotiate some form of compensation or help pay their excess for the damage caused.

How to make a claim for storm damage to your home

If a storm or bad weather damages your property or contents, you should first weigh up whether to make a claim. After all, minor damage could cost less to fix than the stated excess amounts in your home insurance policy.

Even if you decide to pay for repairs yourself, you should inform your insurer. If you don't and further damage results in a claim, your provider could reject it.

In the event you need to make a claim, it's important to gather as much evidence as possible by taking photos and videos. Doing this can illustrate the extent of damage and help support your claim.

For emergency repairs, you should contact a professional immediately. Just make sure you hang on to any receipts, you'll need to provide these to your insurer when making a claim.

If you need alternative accommodation while your home is being repaired, you'll also need to keep receipts. These could relate to temporary accommodation and any living expenses.

If the damage doesn't require urgent attention, contact your insurer and provide evidence. It's likely they'll send someone to assess the situation.

What if I need emergency repairs on my home?

Time might not be on your side if you need emergency repairs, especially if you can't wait for your home insurance provider.

In this instance, you'll need to arrange an emergency repair yourself by hiring a professional.

It's likely you'll need to pay for this yourself, at least initially. But make sure to keep receipts. Because you can claim costs back through your insurance company at a later date.

Preparing for extreme weather

Ensuring your property is well maintained is important for two vital reasons.

Firstly, it can help minimise the scale of damage should you experience a storm or poor weather conditions. It could help your case if an insurer brings up wear and tear during a potential claim process.

There are a number of ways to maintain your home, including:

• Clear guttering of any debris, ensuring water runs freely
• Replace or repair any loose panels or roof tiles
• Fix broken fences and other structures that could pose a risk as debris
• Regularly turn on your central heating to ensure proper circulation
• Check that walls and pipes are well insulated against cold weather

If you're anticipating a storm or bad weather, you should also consider removing moveable items near your home. This can minimise the threat of any debris damaging your property.