Storm damage
Minimising storm damage risk involves external inspections, securing structures, and staying informed about the weather
The number of storm claims paid out by Total Landlord quadrupled between 2018 and 2022, with the average claim paid peaking at £10,801 in the 2020 storm season. At the time of writing in January 2025, we’ve already had five named storms in the 2024/25 season – Ashley, Bert, Conall, Darragh and Eowyn - the first named storm to hit in 2025.
Most storm damage claims are for roof damage, typically as a result of high winds causing tiles to fall off the roof. We’ve yet to see the full impact of these recent storms on claims, but storms have been the second most common cause of claims in four out of the last five years. In 2024, the average claim for storm damage was for £3,636, but some claims are considerably higher. In 2023, Total Landlord paid out £97,804.40 for roof damage to a property caused by torrential rain.
February is the most common month for storm damage claims, so it’s a good idea to prepare your rental property to reduce the impact at this time of year.
Carry out regular external inspections in daylight, paying particular attention to loose roof tiles, guttering, downpipes and trees
In late autumn clear gutters and drains of debris
In winter when the leaves are gone, trim trees, inspect the roof and carry out repairs, and check that windows and doors are watertight and secure
Fence panels are usually excluded from insurance policies, so make sure they are properly secured
Check that garden gates are secure and remind your tenants to keep them shut
Forewarned is forearmed, so check the Met Office weather forecast regularly so that you can take extra precautions if you know a storm is approaching
For more guidance read our guide, ‘How to protect your rental property from storms’.