Does home insurance cover storm damage?

Home insurance could cover damage that is directly covered by a storm. Buildings insurance can help pay for damage to your home's structure, while contents insurance can cover belongings damaged by a storm. What's covered depends on your policy and the cause of the damage. If it is caused by poor maintenance or wear and tear is not usually included.

Strong winds, heavy rain and falling trees can cause costly damage to your home. From missing roof tiles to water getting indoors, repairs can be expensive. In this guide, we'll explain what storm damage is, what home insurance may cover, what is often excluded, and how to make a claim.

What is storm damage?

Storm damage is damage caused by severe weather, such as:

• strong winds
• heavy rain
• hail
• snow and ice
• falling trees or branches

Examples of storm damage include:

• roof tiles blown off
• broken windows or skylights
• damage to chimneys or gutters
• rainwater getting into your home after a storm
• damage caused by falling trees or debris

Your insurer will check that the damage was caused by severe weather before accepting a claim.

What does buildings insurance cover in a storm?

Buildings insurance may help cover damage to the structure of your home caused by a storm. This can include roof damage caused by strong winds, heavy rain or fallen trees, as well as broken windows and doors, damage to walls and chimneys, and water damage that happens after a storm damages part of your property. In many cases, roof damage caused by a storm will be covered, provided the roof was in good condition before the weather event.

What does contents insurance cover in a storm?

Contents insurance may help cover your belongings if they're damaged by a storm. This could include items such as furniture, carpets, curtains and electrical goods. Cover may apply if rainwater enters your home through storm damage, such as a damaged roof or broken window. The exact cover available will depend on your policy.

What storm damage is not usually covered?

Home insurance is designed for unexpected events. It does not usually cover damage that happens over time or damage caused by poor upkeep. Examples that will not be covered include:

• a roof that was already damaged before the storm
• loose roof tiles that had not been repaired
• damaged gutters that had not been maintained
• rotten fences or gates
• general wear and tear

Some policies may also limit cover for fences, gates and garden items. If a storm damages your fence, whether you're covered will depend on the type of policy you have. Check your policy documents to see what's included.

How do I make a storm damage claim?

If a storm damages your home, follow these steps to help your claim go smoothly.

1. Make safety your priority. Stay away from damaged parts of your home and do not attempt repairs that could put you at risk.
2. Contact your insurer as soon as possible. Many insurers offer 24 hour claims support and emergency help.
3. Stop further damage if it's safe to do so. You may need to arrange temporary repairs to prevent the damage getting worse. Keep any receipts, as your insurer may ask to see them.
4. Take photos of the damage. Photographs and videos can help support your claim.
5. Keep damaged items if possible. Unless they are unsafe, your insurer may want to inspect damaged items before they are thrown away.

In conclusion

Home insurance can help cover the cost of repairs if severe weather damages your home or belongings. Buildings insurance may cover damage to your home's structure, while contents insurance may cover damaged possessions. What's covered will depend on your policy and the cause of the damage.

Taking simple steps to look after your home and understanding what's included in your cover can help you feel prepared when bad weather hits. See this blog for how to protect your home from storm damage.