Residents advised to take action ahead of Storm Darragh

As the UK braces itself for the arrival of Storm Darragh, Aviva is advising residents to take action to protect their homes from damage.

According to recent research by Avivaⁱ, half of all UK residents are concerned about damage from storms, with two in five already experiencing property damage as a result of extreme weather.

With red and amber warnings in place, heavy rainfall, and high winds predicted over the weekend across the south, west and central parts of England and in Northern Ireland, south-west Scotland and Wales, taking preventative action now can help minimise damage to homes.

Laura Lazarus, head of home claims at Aviva, said: “The arrival of the fourth named storm of the season, Storm Darragh, is expected to bring extremely heavy rain and high winds as it moves across the country over the weekend.

“Central, western and southern areas of the UK are expected to bear the brunt of the extreme weather and exposed areas could face gusts of up to 80 mph. If it is safe to do so, we would urge customers to take some simple steps to help protect their homes before conditions deteriorate.

“If the worst does happen, our claims team are on standby to help customers whose homes, businesses or cars have experienced damage. Aviva customers can register their claim online 24/7 or though the MyAviva app.”

Aviva has prepared a checklist to help residents protect their homes and belongings:

Before the storm, 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.
• Listen out for flood warnings in your area and sign up to the Government’s flood risk checker.
• Move your car to higher ground and move valuables to a higher level (such as high shelves or upstairs) if you live in a high flood risk area.
• Prepare a storm 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.
• Reschedule travel plans where possible. Driving through floodwaters or in strong wind can be dangerous.
• 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.
• 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 may be able to help arrange repairs if their home has been damaged.

Aviva customers wishing to make a claim can register their claim online or via the MyAviva site or app.

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References:

^{i. Censuswide survey data on behalf of Aviva. 2022 UK respondents, including 539 homeowners whose homes have been built in the last 5 years. July/August 2024.}

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