Storm Austen has brought 80mph gusts to parts of the UK, leaving tens of thousands of people without power, and homeowners are asking whether their insurance will cover any damage caused.
A yellow weather warning for wind is in place for parts of England and Wales, with the South West forecast to see the strongest gusts. Storm Boelo is expected to arrive over the weekend, with amber wind warnings issued for Saturday and Sunday in Scotland and parts of Northern England.
What Home Insurance Typically Covers
Home insurance generally covers storm damage through a combination of buildings insurance for the structure of your property and contents insurance for your belongings. However, most standard policies exclude storm damage to garden fences, gates, and boundary walls, so it is important to read your documents carefully to check what you are covered for.
Storms can bring heavy rain, and as many parts of the country are still in drought, excess water may find it more difficult to drain away quickly, causing localised flooding. Most standard home insurance in the UK typically includes flood cover.
Storm Damage Claims Statistics
New analysis by Aviva reveals that a fifth (20%) of all home insurance claims are for storm damage, and of these, the majority (84%) occur during autumn and winter.
Laura Lazarus, director of home and lifestyle claims at Aviva, said: "Although the UK has experienced warmer than average temperatures for many months this year, as autumn gets underway and weather patterns become more changeable, we urge homeowners to take steps to protect their homes."
How to Prepare Your Home
Lazarus added: "Taking action when the weather is milder is the best way to ensure your home is ready for extreme weather."
Aviva advises homeowners to inspect their roof for any missing or loose tiles, safely store away garden furniture, and ensure gutters and downpipes are attached securely. Other recommended steps include listening out for flood warnings, moving your car to higher ground, moving valuables to a higher level, preparing a storm or flood emergency kit, and reading your home insurance documents.
