Research reveals over a fifth of UK residents have experienced storm damage to their home in last five years

As we enter a new storm season, new external researchⁱⁱⁱ from insurer, Aviva, reveals that over a fifth (22%) of UK homes have suffered storm damage and 12% have experienced flooding in the last five years. Concerningly, two fifths of all homes (40%) have been impacted by some form of extreme weather.

Additionally, Aviva’s own claims data reveals that almost a fifth (19%) of all UK home claims between 2020 and 2024 were related to storm damage.ⁱⁱ

Storm claims typically peak each year from October to March. December saw the highest percentage of storm claims (30%) across 2023, while 71% of claims submitted in February 2022, were due to storm, highlighting the unpredictable nature of storms across the winter months. 

Last winter, the UK experienced twelve named storms, the highest number since the Met Office introduced the naming system in 2015. Yet despite this, Aviva’s research from 2,000 residents across the UK, also revealed that worries about climate impacts on homes are lower than 2023. 

Just over a third of people (34%) believe climate change will impact their home in the next year, compared to almost two fifths (38%) in 2023. Worryingly, those living in the highest flood risk areas are less likely to think climate change will impact their home in the next year, with only 28% believing this will happen.

Despite the prevalence of storms in recent years, heat is the biggest concern for most people (28%) with almost a quarter (24%) believing storms will affect their home and 17% of people concerned about floods.

Longer term worries about climate change impacts on homes are also lower than last year, with 45% concerned about an impact in five years (2023: 50%) and 54% in 10 years (2023: 58%). 

Laura Lazarus, Head of Personal Lines Home Claims, at Aviva, says: “Over the last five years, two fifths of homes across the UK have experienced damage from extreme weather, highlighting the significant impact that severe weather can have on our communities, especially if they are underprepared. Last winter alone, we faced 12 named storms, and this year, the storm season has started even earlier than usual, with rainy British weather in full force and more storms inevitable.

“At Aviva, we understand the importance of being prepped ahead of extreme weather events, which can include inspecting the roof for damaged or missing tiles to help prevent leaks, securing outdoor items and preparing an emergency kit with essentials just in case. Staying informed via reliable weather forecasts can also make a significant difference in ensuring personal safety and minimising damage to property.

“The right home insurance is also crucial in helping provide financial protection and peace of mind to customers during extreme weather events, ensuring that individuals and families can recover and rebuild after any destructive storms. As storms can highlight defects or damage due to lack of maintenance, customers should always check their documents to understand what is and isn’t covered.”

Below, Aviva is helping people get ready for this year's batch of bad weather:

Before the storm or flood, if it is safe to do so:

• Inspect your roof for any missing/loose tiles or slates or areas of damage. Aviva research suggests roof damage is the most common home issue caused by extreme weather.
• Safely store away garden furniture, tools and ornaments, making sure any large pieces that can’t be moved are securely fixed. Secure fences and gates.
• Ensure gutters and downpipes are attached securely and clear out your gutters and drains to prevent water overflowing.
• Sign up and listen out for flood warnings in your area using the Government’s free flood warnings service.
• Move valuables to a higher level (such as high shelves or upstairs) if you live in a high flood risk area.
• Prepare an emergency kit in case you need to leave your home. Pack warm clothes, medicines, a torch, batteries, spare house and car keys, and bottled water.
• Read your home insurance documents and store them safely, whether in your home or on your insurer’s app, so you know what is covered if you need to make a claim.
• Alert your neighbours – especially elderly or vulnerable neighbours so everyone knows there is a storm on the way.

During the storm:

• Make sure all doors and windows are closed and sealed to avoid water entering your home.
• Don’t try to repair damage while the storm is ongoing. Property can be repaired, it’s more important to stay safe.
• Evacuate when told to do so and follow the instructions of the emergency services.

After the storm:

• If your home or belongings have been damaged, contact your insurer as soon as possible to let them know what has happened. Insurers are best placed to help manage your claim from start to finish.
• Don’t touch any electrics – they may be dangerous if water has got into them.
• List any damage to your property and don’t throw anything away in case it’s needed for the claims process.
• Check in on vulnerable neighbours. You could help them to arrange repairs if their home has been damaged.
• Talk to your insurer about resilient repairs – taking preventative measures to improve flood resilience can help reduce the impact of any future rainfall[ii]. Check your home’s long-term flood risk with the Government’s flood risk checker.

More advice and information about protecting your home from extreme weather can be found on Aviva’s extreme weather hub.

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References:

^{i. The research was conducted by Censuswide, among a sample of 2,022 Nationally Representative UK Consumers, aged 16+ including 539 homeowners whose homes have been built within the last five years. The data was collected between 31.07.2024 - 08.08.2024. Censuswide abides by and employs members of the Market Research Society and follows the MRS code of conduct which is based on the ESOMAR principles.}

^{ii. Aviva is supporting Flood Re’s Build Back Better scheme by offering the ability to install up to £10k in flood resilience measures during the repair process following a buildings flood claim of £25k or more.}

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