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How to Prepare Your Home for Stormy Weather

COMMERCIAL FLOOD INSURANCE CLAIM

At Harris Balcombe, we routinely help homeowners struggling with storm damage claims to receive the settlements they deserve.

At Harris Balcombe, we routinely help homeowners struggling with storm damage claims to receive the settlements they deserve.

But as well as helping homeowners to recover, we can also help them to prepare.

That’s why we prepared this short guide to preparing your home for stormy weather. While some areas of the UK are more risk-averse than others, for total peace of mind, these are the sort of measures all homeowners should consider taking

Preparing For High Winds & Stormy Weather

  • Conduct an exterior inspection – Or hire someone to do it for you. Be on the lookout for tiles that may be torn away by high winds, or loose and heavy branches that could be blown into windows.
  • Do those jobs you’ve been meaning to do for months – Ensure that all your gutters and drains are clear to allow for the quick and effective channelling of heavy rain.
  • Don’t leave everything ‘til the last minute – Once the storm starts, it’ll be too late to address any of the above problems.
  • Prepare Yourself a Storm Kit – Storms can cause power cuts, so it’s best to gather everything you might need in advance – torches, candles, matches, medication, bottled water, and blankets.

When the Storm Comes

  • Keep your eyes on the forecast – The government releases severe weather warnings for a reason. You should commence your preparations the moment a severe weather warning is issued.
  • Perform a sweep of your exterior – Remove any excess debris, and if you’ve any loose items of garden furniture, either secure them down or store them inside.
  • Put your car in the garage – Or if you don’t have a garage, park somewhere that’s free from any overhanging branches or other items that could fall and cause damage.
  • Keep your pets indoors – And make sure all members of your family are accounted for.

After the Storm

  • Mind how you go – After particularly violent storms, certain structures, such as old trees and walls, may be prone to collapse.
  • Leave the repairs to the professionals – Especially if you’re dealing with plumbing, electricals, or structural issues.
  • Call your insurers – But so as to make the claims process as swift and as equitable as possible, make sure you get a loss assessor on your side first.

For more information on preparing for and coping with storm damage, read our guides on minimising flood damage and on preparing your home for the winter.

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INSURANCE CLAIM ADVICE HUB

See Insurance Claim Advice Hub
  • How to respond to a Loss Adjuster - Can you explain what happened?

    How to respond to a Loss Adjuster

    Can you explain what happened?

    Why they ask

    This is to compare your version of events against your policy coverage and timelines.

    Smart answer

    Always stick to the facts. Avoid speculation or emotional exaggeration.

    With a loss assessor

    A loss assessor will help you structure your account clearly so you don’t over- or under-share.

  • How to respond to a Loss Adjuster - When did the damage occur?

    How to respond to a Loss Adjuster

    When did the damage occur?

    Why they ask

    They’re basically verifying if the event falls within your coverage period.

    Smart answer

    Be as specific as possible with the date and time.

    Avoid

    'I think it was last week sometime...'

    Tip

    A loss assessor will ensure that this matches other documentation, like alarm logs or photos.

  • How to respond to a Loss Adjuster - Were you present at the time?

    How to respond to a Loss Adjuster

    Were you present at the time?

    Why they ask

    They want to confirm the circumstances and establish liability or negligence.

    Smart answer

    Answer honestly and clearly, and mention if others were present.

    Tip

    If others witnessed the event, a loss assessor may advise collecting statements from them to bolster your claim.

  • How to respond to a Loss Adjuster - Do you have proof of ownership or receipts?

    How to respond to a Loss Adjuster

    Do you have proof of ownership or receipts?

    Why they ask

    They want to validate the items you’re claiming for.

    Smart answer

    Where possible, provide receipts, invoices, photos or warranty documents.

    No receipts?

    No stress, a loss assessor may be able to help you establish the value using alternative methods.

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