Home
Does home insurance cover storm damage?
The short answer
Yes for sudden storm damage to the structure and, with contents cover, to your belongings inside. Fences, gates and hedges are excluded from storm damage on most policies, and property already in poor repair won't be paid for.
What counts as a storm
Typically wind gusts around 47–55 mph or above, torrential rain, hail or heavy snow. Insurers check Met Office data for your postcode on the date you give.
If wind speeds fall short, the claim is assessed as wear and tear instead — which usually means a decline.
What's covered and what isn't
Covered: roof damage, chimneys, windows, damage from a tree falling on the house, and internal damage where rain gets in through new storm damage.
Typically not covered: fences, gates, hedges and, on many policies, garden furniture and plants; damage to a building already in disrepair; and gradual water ingress.
Claiming well
Make temporary repairs to prevent further damage, keep receipts, and take dated photos before anything is cleared away. Get two written estimates if you can.
Check these on your own policy
- Weather data for your postcode on the day
- Dated photos before clearing up
- Receipts for emergency repairs
- Check whether garden items and fences are excluded
Common follow-up questions
Are fences really excluded?
On the large majority of UK policies, yes — storm damage to fences and gates is excluded. A few premium policies include it, so check your schedule.
Who pays if my tree falls on a neighbour's house?
Their buildings insurance usually handles the repair. Your liability cover only comes in if you knew the tree was dangerous and did nothing.