Over a fifth of UK homes have suffered storm damage and one in eight have had flooding in the last five years, according to research by a major insurer, Aviva. The study revealed that 22% of homes in the UK have experienced storm damage, while 12% have been affected by flooding. Additionally, two-fifths of homes have been impacted by some form of extreme weather, Aviva reported.
A survey conducted by Censuswide for Aviva, with over 2,000 participants across the UK in July and August, found that just over a third (34%) of people believe that climate change will have an impact on their homes in the next year. Aviva also shared insights from its own claims data, showing that nearly a fifth (19%) of home claims in the UK between 2020 and 2024 were related to storm damage.
Laura Lazarus, head of personal lines home claims at Aviva, highlighted the significance of preparing for extreme weather events. She emphasised the importance of having the right home insurance to provide financial protection and peace of mind during severe weather conditions, enabling individuals and families to recover and rebuild after destructive storms.
Aviva provided some helpful tips for preparing for extreme weather incidents, including inspecting roofs for damage, securing garden furniture and tools, clearing out gutters and downpipes, signing up for flood warnings, moving valuables to a higher level in flood-risk areas, preparing an emergency kit, and familiarising oneself with home insurance policies.
Lazarus advised that customers should be proactive in checking their insurance documents to understand what is covered in case they need to make a claim. She also encouraged alerting neighbours, especially elderly or vulnerable individuals, about incoming storms to ensure everyone is prepared.
This latest research from Aviva serves as a reminder of the increasing prevalence of extreme weather events and the importance of taking proactive steps to protect homes and families from storm damage and flooding. By being prepared and having the right insurance coverage, individuals can mitigate the financial and emotional impacts of such weather-related incidents.