Weather the Storm - Advertisement Feature

Image: Creative Common Attribution: blodgett-esq

One of our main topics of conversation in the UK is the weather, and we’re right to feel fed up! The idea of a British summer is slipping away, as climate change takes hold and adverse weather hits unexpectedly at any time of the year.

Analysis of industry data by Sainsbury’s Bank shows that summer floods alone cost £3 billion in 2007: the worst year yet. Having adequate home insurance is all the more important as bad weather can strike at any time of year.

The research indicates that 1.78 million homeowners are without buildings insurance. As the UK has witnessed an upsurge in property damage claims due to bad weather, now’s the time for all homeowners to ensure we are adequately insured. Sainsbury’s Head of Home Insurance, Steve Johnson, says: “Some home buildings policies work on a sum-insured basis rather than offering unlimited cover. As such, people need to be careful that their home is adequately insured. We believe unlimited buildings cover gives homeowners greater piece of mind.”

Many home owners believe that a storm couldn’t seriously damage their bricks and mortar.? Unfortunately it could - with flying roof tiles and falling trees smashing windows and walls.

High winds are problematic in most parts of the country, but certain areas are at a much greater risk of flooding than others. Try entering your postcode into the Environment Agency's flood map to assess your position. Rather than panic, just take a few steps to help protect your property whatever the weather:

• Keep drains, and the areas around them, clear of debris
• Secure fences against high winds
• Keep a stock of sandbags if you live in an area prone to flooding
• Employ qualified tradesmen to give your property an annual winter MOT: check roof tiles, window seals and panes
• Take out adequate home insurance

If the Met Office forecasts severe weather, you should take these extra precautions:

• Secure or store loose outdoor items (garden furniture, bikes, barbecues, ladders etc)
• Park your car away from large trees, ideally in a garage
• Fasten doors and windows securely
• Have a torch handy in case of a power cut
• If electrical storms are forecast, unplug the aerial from your television set
• If flooding is expected, plan ahead so you know what you’ll do with your furniture

Should your home suffer damage, take the following steps before filing your claim:

• take photos of the damage
• don't throw away possessions
• get a qualified tradesman to check your electrical equipment and gas supply before you use them
• run and wash taps
• only lift wet carpets if necessary
• open doors and windows to ventilate
• restock supplies in case of another flood

Sainsbury’s Home Insurance offers Home Emergency cover, with all claims work carried out by approved contractors and guaranteed for 12 months. It even covers damage to garden sheds – an aspect that may not be covered by other policies.