Is your business storm ready? 

Did you know? All Insurers expect some level of maintenance and risk mitigation, so if the damage is deemed to arise from neglect (e.g. blocked gutters, failure to repair damaged roof tiles) they may decline a claim. 

What to do now – Inspect and maintain 

• Gutters, downpipes and drains: get them regularly checked and ensure they are clear from debris so rainwater can flow freely. 
• Roof, chimneys: get a roofer to inspect and advise (annually is a good idea). Check for loose or cracked tiles and get them fixed.  
• Windows, doors, roller shutters: Ensure all are in good repair, seal well and can be secured/closed. 
• Loose, external  items: Bring indoors or ensure any objects that could become projectiles are secure (signage, garden furniture, bins, potted plants, ladders, antenna’s, satellite dishes, external lighting). 
• Trees and vegetation: Are your trees in good health and condition? Cut back trees or overhanging weak branches that threaten to fall onto structures, power lines or other people’s land/vehicles. If there’s a tree that’s not yours, overhanging your property/assets, contact your neighbour/local authority about it. 
• Perimeter wall, fences, gates: Repair or reinforce weak fencing and gates. 

Document thoroughly: in the event you do need to make a claim, you’ll need evidence so ensure you keep all maintenance records, reports, receipts and invoices, especially from external contractors for any inspections and work carried. Take regular photos or videos of key structural elements, (roof, gutters, facades, external figures like signage. This can help prove pre-storm condition. 

Know your policy: check what your insurance does and doesn’t cover (e.g. storm, flood business interruption, contents) 

Check the property market value and rebuild and sums insured, policy limits and excesses: Make sure these are up-to-date. If they’re inadequate, a standard condition on most insurance policies called “average” will apply to your claim. This means any payout will be reduced by the percentage you were underinsured by. Speak to our team on 01908 920550 if you’d like us to review at any time. 

Business interruption: If your policy includes business interruption, understand the level of cover and consider if this would be enough, in the event your premises or even part of your premises were out of action. These claims are one of the most time-consuming to evidence and for insurers to assess.    

Emergency contact details: Store your insurers and any other emergency contacts (emergency plumbers, local authority etc) out of hours helpline number somewhere safe, perhaps even off-site and in waterproof form. Speak to our team on 01908 920550 if you need any further information on these. 

Temporary repairs: Many insurers allow emergency repairs which prevent further damage (e.g. tarpaulins over a damaged roof). Keep all receipts and preferably speak to us first on 01908 920570, or your insurers (if out of normal business hours). 

Taking a little time to maintain and prepare your business before a storm, doesn’t just reduce damage, it strengthens your chances of a successful insurance claim. Speak to us if you’d like any more advice on this subject. 

To find out how we could help you, please contact:
Rachael Brafield
Claims Advisor
T: 01908 920570
M: 07561 114 973