Get Ready for STORM Season
Storms can bring unexpected disruption, but with the right steps, you can prepare your home and reduce the risk of costly damage. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to storm-proof your property — and explain exactly how Homeprotect covers storm-related damage.
How to Prepare Your Home for Storms
1. Inspect your roof
Your roof is your first line of defence against a storm. To help prevent damage:
- Check for loose, missing or broken tiles
- Clear gutters and downpipes of debris
- Have your roof inspected by a qualified roofer at least once every 10 years
- Look for signs of leaks or damp in the attic
⚠️ If your roof is in poor condition, damage during a storm may not be covered. Keeping it in a good state of repair is essential for valid storm claims because damage caused by poor maintenance or gradual wear and tear isn’t covered.
If you have a flat roof, check out specialist Flat Roof Insurance.
2. Secure your garden
Strong winds can turn garden furniture, bins bikes, trampolines and toys into dangerous projectiles. Ahead of storm warnings:
- Store loose items in a shed or indoors
- Trim overhanging branches
- Tie down trampolines, parasols or anything light enough to lift
3. Check doors and windows
- Ensure seals are watertight
- Repair or replace damaged frames
- Apply weather-stripping to prevent drafts and leaks
If you have any concerns, Garden Storm Damage – What You Should Know from The Gardener online publication cover everything from fences to greenhouses.
For more information, read our Ultimate Guide to Winter Home Protection.
4. Review your home insurance policy
Even if your policy is not up for renewal any time soon, now is a great time to review your home insurance policy to make sure you have adequate protection against storm damage. If you have any questions, our team are here to help via Live Chat or telephone.
Live Chat is available from Monday to Friday 8am – 8pm, Saturday from 9am – 6pm, and Sunday 9am – 5pm.
Our telephone lines are open from Monday to Friday 9am – 8pm and Saturday from 9am – 1pm.
Please note that calls may be charged.
What Does Homeprotect Cover for Storms?
Storm-related damage is covered — but only when certain criteria are met.
What counts as a storm?
As per our Policy Booklet, we define a storm as:
- Wind speeds of at least 47mph
- Rainfall of at least 25mm per hour
- Snowfall of at least 30cm in 24 hours
- Hail intense enough to damage hard surfaces or break glass
We’ll use verified weather data from the nearest weather station to assess whether a storm occurred.
What’s covered?
- Damage to your home caused by storm, frost, or weight of snow
- A one-time roof repair contribution (up to £1,000) if your roof was not in a good state of repair but storm conditions were met
What’s not covered?
- Damage if storm conditions are not met
- Damage caused by a roof or property not in a good state of repair
- Outdoor fuel tanks, hot tubs, pools, tennis courts, driveways, patios, gates, fences
- Aerials
We know that the UK weather can be unpredictable at the best of times, but being prepared is the best way to minimise risk.
Keep an eye on the weather forecast if a storm is set to hit the UK, and follow the Met Office’s advice on staying safe in a storm.
One-Time Roof Repair Contribution
If your roof is damaged by a storm but isn’t considered to have been in a good state of repair, we will offer a one-time contribution of up to £1,000 toward the cost of repairs — provided the following conditions are met:
- The storm definition is met
- You provide a quote from a qualified roofer
- We approve the quote before work begins
- You submit a valid invoice within 6 months of receiving the contribution
If we don’t receive the invoice in time, we may take steps to recover the contribution. This ensures the funds are used to protect your home from future storms.
What does “Good State of Repair” mean?
To qualify for full storm cover (beyond the one-time contribution), your home must be in a good state of repair. This means:
- Roofs: Well-maintained, with no missing tiles, rot, or failing structural parts.
- Walls, Floors & Ceilings: No cracks, damp, rot or structural weaknesses.
- Windows & Doors: Secure, sealed and undamaged.
- Gutters & Drains: Clear and functional with no leaks or breaks.
- Plumbing & Electrics: Safe, compliant and in working order.
- Pest Control: No infestation that could damage the structure or hygiene of your home.
Maintaining your property helps keep you safe and ensures you’re protected if the worst happens.
Questions?
Our team is here to help you understand your cover and prepare your home for storm season. For full policy terms, check your policy booklet or chat with our experts.