Storm damage - what am I insured for?

Storms can cause a huge amount of damage to your property, and potentially cost you a lot of money in repairs.

High winds can uproot trees and send dangerous debris through the air. Meanwhile, heavy rain can saturate the ground, block drains and cause flash floods. Lightning strikes can start fires and damage electrical equipment.

For gusty winds to be considered a storm, a wind speed of at least 55mph must be reached. Insurers will sometimes refer to MET Office wind reports. This data determines whether damage is because of bad weather or other problems. Your policy wording details what cover you have.

It’s important not to underestimate the power of storms and gales. Here’s what to look out for when agreeing your insurance policy: 

Storm damage insurance: six basics you need to know

1. Your buildings insurance protects the bricks and mortar of your home. This includes any permanent fixtures like kitchen or bathroom fittings.

2. A severe storm can also cause damage to your possessions, so you’ll need contents insurance to cover that. Your contents insurance policy can also include items kept in outbuildings, like garages or sheds.

3. Most household buildings and contents insurance policies should cover storm damage to your home and belongings as standard. They may also pay for temporary accommodation while your home is repaired. Be sure to check the terms of your policy - it could make such a difference when making a claim.

4. Some insurers will offer an early payment in lieu. For example, if you can’t afford to pay for new items straight away, they will offer settlement early. That amount will be taken from the final settlement.

5. If something from your property causes damage to a neighbour’s property, your buildings insurance should cover you. This could be anything from a loose tile to a fallen tree. Check your policy wording to be sure.

6. If your car suffers storm damage, your car insurance policy should cover you if you have comprehensive cover. Check your policy wording to be sure.

Remember, your insurer will have experience of supporting homeowners after extreme weather events. They are there to help you through it. 

Find out more about Home Insurance through Swinton

• Flood Risk Insurance - Flexible policies to suit a wide range of circumstances
• Combined Home Insurance - Protect your home and its contents
• Buildings Insurance - Flexible buildings cover to suit your needs
• Contents Insurance - Protect your possessions from loss or damage