Storm tips

Protect your home from damage during storms

High winds and heavy rain during storms can inflict considerable damage on your home. You can help reduce the potential risks by taking a few sensible precautions.

If you have any vulnerable neighbours, remember to check with them to see if they need any assistance before and after a storm.

Plan ahead

  • Check your roof for loose tiles or damaged chimney pots and get any problems repaired. Also make sure your TV aerial is secured
  • Clear your guttering and drain pipes to avoid blockages. Consider fitting gutter leaf guards, especially if there are tall trees near your home
  • Trim back any bushes or small trees that could damage your windows in a high wind
  • Put a storm kit together that includes food, bottled water, a first aid kit, any necessary medication, emergency telephone numbers, clothes, blankets, bin bags, a torch, batteries, a wind-up radio and a disposable camera (to take photos of any damage for your insurance company)
  • Make sure you know where to turn off your electricity, gas and water supplies

Before a storm arrives

  • Secure any loose garden items, such as tools and chairs, to prevent them from being blown away
  • Unplug all non-essential electrical devices to avoid damage from power surges caused by lightning strikes
  • Park your car in a garage if possible or move it away from buildings and trees
  • Make sure you know where to turn off your gas, water and electricity supplies

During a storm

  • Keep your doors, windows and storm shutters (if you have them) closed
  • Close your curtains to protect against breaking glass
  • Only open internal doors when needed and close them behind you
  • Don’t try and repair any damage outside until the storm has passed
  • If you need to evacuate, turn off your gas, water and electricity before you leave (if safe to do so)

After a storm has passed

  • If your home has been damaged by the storm, contact your insurance company immediately
  • Keep away from trees and outside walls as they may have been damaged in the storm
  • If you’ve lost power at night, use torches rather than candles for light to avoid a fire hazard

Fixing storm damage can be very expensive. AA Buildings Insurance can cover your home against damage caused by storms.

Interested in AA Home Insurance?

Get a quote

The underwriter of your home insurance policy will be chosen from our panel of insurers.

AA Home Insurance is arranged by Automobile Association Insurance Services Limited. Registered office: Fanum House, Basing View, Basingstoke, Hampshire RG21 4EA. Registered in England and Wales number 2414212.

Automobile Association Insurance Services Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority (FSA). You can check on the FSA's register by visiting the FSA's website www.fsa.gov.uk (link opens a new window) or by contacting the FSA on 0845 606 1234.