Understanding wind damage: Insurance and prevention tips for homeowners

As summer gives way to autumn and the weather takes a turn, we’ve asked our expert Property Owners team to share some advice on how to help prevent wind-related damage. You’ll find their tips below, which you should feel free to pass on to your clients.

Typical wind-related damage

Strong winds can cause significant damage to property, from dislodging roof tiles and bricks to toppling garden fences. In more severe cases, they can bring down large branches and even entire trees.

To reduce the risk, it’s important to carry out regular checks. Inspect roof tiles and brickwork for any signs of looseness or damage, and ensure garden fences are firmly secured. Trimming overhanging branches can also help prevent them from falling during storms.

If a storm is on the way, bring garden furniture and equipment (such as ladders) indoors, and make sure all doors and windows are tightly shut.

Insurance cover for wind damage

Having the right insurance in place is essential to ensure your client’s property is protected if the unexpected happens. Even with proactive steps to reduce risk, there’s always the possibility that something could go wrong. Clients should also make sure to check their policy to see what is covered.

How to assess and document wind damage claim

If your property has been damaged by wind during a storm, it’s important to get in contact with your insurer as soon as possible. Inspect your property inside and out and take photos of any damage so you can submit these as evidence. If you’re sure that your property is safe:

Check your roof: Inspect any tiles, bricks, or slats that may have been loosened or broken by the storm.

Inspect your windows and doors: Check that your windows and doors still open and shut correctly, and that no glass is broken.

Check your exterior walls: Check for cracks or crumbling walls.

If your home needs emergency repairs, get in contact with a trusted professional as soon as possible, and let your insurer know that you’ve done so (depending on the type of emergency repairs required, you may need to get permission from your insurer or home emergency provider before contacting a professional.)

Make sure you keep any receipts so you can submit these when you make a claim, and take photos of the damage before and after the repair work.

Consistent with our policy when giving comment

Consistent with our policy when giving comment and advice on a non-specific basis, we cannot assume legal responsibility for the accuracy of any particular statement. In the case of specific problems, we recommend that professional advice be sought.