Safeguarding Your Home Against Storm Damage 8 Essential Steps

Secure Comprehensive Coverage: Home insurance, especially in flood-prone areas, is crucial. Check your existing policy or consider getting coverage if you haven't already. Review your policy details, particularly for storm damage coverage. 

Tree Maintenance: Prune or trim trees to prevent branches from becoming projectiles during storms. Identify weak branches and remove them beforehand. For larger or tricky trees, seek assistance from professionals. 

Outdoor Object Safety: Reinforce fences and secure outdoor furniture and equipment. Ensure that heavy items are properly anchored or brought indoors. Smaller items susceptible to damage should be securely covered or stored away. 

Roof and Skylight Inspection: Regularly inspect your roof and skylights for signs of wear and weakness. Look out for leaks, missing tiles, or deteriorating seals. If unsure or unable to safely access your roof, consult a roofing specialist. 

Chimney Maintenance: Check for weak spots around chimneys and vents. Look for signs of wear, gaps, or cracks in seals and joints. Due to potential hazards, consider hiring a professional for chimney inspection and repair. 

Gutter and Drain Clearance: Keep gutters and drains clear of debris to prevent blockages. Maintain gutter joints and promptly repair any damage to prevent water accumulation and potential structural issues. 

Car Protection: If possible, park your car in a garage or on higher ground to avoid flooding damage. Secure rubbish and recycling bins to prevent them from causing damage during strong winds. 

Emergency Kit Preparation: Assemble an emergency kit containing essential items like contact numbers, phone chargers, torches, non-perishable food, warm clothing, and entertainment for potential power cuts or low phone battery situations. 

Place sandbags strategically to minimise flood damage. 

Stay informed with flood alerts from relevant authorities. 

Consider insurance coverage options, including those provided for flood-prone areas. 

Conduct a thorough inspection of your home and belongings for damage. 

Document any damage and initiate the insurance claim process promptly. 

Consider additional coverage options like home emergency cover for expedited assistance.