Storms can have a devastating impact on your home and cost thousands of pounds worth of damage. But never fear, because the team at National Home Repairs are here to provide you with some handy tips to reduce the stress and effects of suffering storm damage, and we will be on hand to support you if the worst should happen.

How to prepare for a storm

Make sure you keep an eye out for severe weather warnings in your area, prepare for potential power outages and secure any loose items. This may include making sure garden furniture has been stored safely in a shed, bikes are safely put away, plant pots, hanging baskets and washing lines have been moved indoors, there are no outdoor electrical cables left outside and you know where to turn off all gas, water and electrical supplies.

It is also important to check that roof tiles and TV aerials are maintained, all windows and doors have been firmly closed and locked and that any cars have been moved safely into a garage or on high ground to protect them from flood damage.

Blocked gutters and drains can cause potential water damage, so it is a good idea to remove any fallen leaves from these areas or even consider fitting a leaf guard. It is also worth trimming back any large trees or bushes that could damage windows in high wind.

Move all valuables and furniture onto high ground, either move to the first floor or raise items to prevent from flood damage; placing aluminium foil or bricks between furniture legs and carpets is a good way to prevent water damage to soft furnishings if they are too large to move to higher ground. It is also worth removing and raising any electrical items from sockets in case they are damaged by an electrical surge.

What to do during a storm

During a storm make sure all windows and doors are firmly closed, including internal doors and only open if necessary. Do not try to make any repairs during a storm and if you need to evacuate make sure to turn off the gas, water and electricity before you leave.

Storm damage repairs

If your home has suffered at the hands of storm damage contact your National Home Repairs immediately and take photographs of any damage to be presented as part of your insurance claim.

To find out more on filing a storm damage insurance claim click here.

Call National Home Repairs’ friendly claims team on 0844 906 00060 and we will arrange for one of our qualified loss surveyors to visit your property to assess the damage and provide advice on how to prevent further damage.

National Home Repairs offer a comprehensive storm damage repair service. Our skilled restoration experts can restore your home to its pre-loss condition. Our team can also manage your entire insurance claim, working with your insurance company to ensure you get your full entitlement. We are paid by your insurance company too, so there’s no additional expense to use our service.

Emergency storm kit

Put together an emergency storm kit as part of your preparations, which could include:

• Torches in case of power outages
• Bottles of water
• Food
• A first aid kit, including any necessary medication
• Clothes and blankets
• Emergency phone numbers
• Bin bags
• Batteries
• A wind up radio
• A disposable camera (to take pictures of any damage for your insurance company)