Storms and severe weather across many parts of the UK have caused havoc for homeowners over the past few days, and with more heavy rain and gale force winds forecast, now is the time to take steps to protect your home.
Last weekend, Cumbria was hit by flash flooding, and struggling householders are now having to deal with the after-effects of the damage.
As anyone beginning the clear-up following such devastation will testify, our homes are very exposed to the elements - making it crucial not only to have adequate cover in place, but also to give your home a “storm MOT.”
Check your cover
First off, you need to check you have up-to-date home and buildings cover in place; damage to the fabric of the building is covered under your buildings policy while possessions are covered under the contents.
Recent figures showed that up to a fifth (*) of homeowners were considering not renewing their cover to help make ends meet during the recession, but with figures showing a typical home insurance claim for storm damage is around £1,000 - while a claim for flood damage can exceed £20,000 (**) - this is simply false economy
If you are living in an “at risk” flood area, you need to check the details of your buildings and contents cover, as well as the limits and excesses on both.
It’s also worth noting that while household insurance covers damage caused by certain bad weather conditions, there is also a responsibility for homeowners to keep their properties in a good state of repair.
As a general rule, buildings insurance will cover damage to the structure of a home, domestic outbuildings and drives caused by flood and storms - but damage to gates and fences may well be excluded from standard cover.
Reduce the risk of storm damage
Given that the greatest risks from storms arise from problems with falling trees, masonry and dislodged roof tiles, it is vital to protect your home through regular maintenance.
“Cut back low hanging branches that could cause damage in high winds,” says Martyn Foulds from Halifax Home Insurance. “Clear the gutters and drainpipes of any leaves or debris to reduce the risk of blocks and overflows - and check external light fittings are secure.”
Ensure the roof is in good condition and make sure there are no tiles flapping around; also secure any objects which could become hazardous, such as garden furniture, barbeques and bicycles - and keep all gates fastened.
Protect your property from flooding
If your home is at risk of flooding, place sandbags outside your doors to reduce the amount of flood water able to enter the property.
Turn off the mains supplies of water, gas and electricity, and unplug electrical items and store them in a high place.
“Move as much furniture as possible upstairs,” says Foulds. “Weigh down large items that cannot be moved upstairs with sandbags to ensure they don’t float around.”
Also remember to move sentimental items such as photos to a safe place, as these cannot be replaced.
Be prepared
If storms, strong winds or heavy rains are forecast, it’s worth keeping a winter home emergency kit at the ready; this should include torches, a battery-powered radio, a spare phone battery, first aid kit, blankets and a shovel.
Also make sure you have your home insurance documents and a list of emergency numbers to hand and keep them in a plastic cover so they too do not get damaged.
Dealing with the damage
If you do fall victim to flooding or storm damage, you should contact your insurer immediately.
“Insurers will have 24-hour emergency helplines and are on the ground in flood-hit areas to help customers through the claims process,” says Nick Starling from the Association of British Insurers (ABI). “They will also be able to provide advice support, and alternative accommodation where needed - as well as authorise repairs.”
Do not throw damaged items away, as you will need these to help with the settlement of the claim. You can also assist by taking photos of items that need emergency repair - and keeping any receipts for replaced property.
“Remember that drying out flood-damaged properties can take many months,” says Starling. “Your insurance company will advise you on the right steps to take to get your property back in order.”
Prevention is better than cure
With home emergencies, prevention is better than cure - so don't think you can simply wait until the rains are coming before purchasing a policy.
Also note that for just a few pounds extra a month, you can bolt Home Emergency Cover on to your home insurance to guarantee the provision of an approved tradesperson to make your property safe.
And finally, to check the latest flood warnings and weather forecasts go to www.environment-agency.gov.uk, www.sepa.org.uk and www.metoffice.gov.uk; also monitor local radio services and the Floodline on 0845 988 1188.
(*) Association of British Insurers
(**) Halifax Home Insurance
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