Winter prep in the UK: How to protect your home against storms

With forecasts predicting a stormy winter across the UK, property maintenance has become increasingly critical for homeowners. Recent data shows that payouts for storm damage reached £244m in 2025, while total weather-related insurance claims peaked at £758m last year. Experts emphasize that proactive measures are essential to protect properties and prevent costly repair bills.

The first line of defense involves roof and gutter maintenance. Checking for loose tiles or damaged flashing prevents flying debris, while cleaning blocked gutters stops rainwater from seeping into brickwork or damaging foundations. Homeowners are also encouraged to inspect external walls for cracks. Ignoring minor defects in render can lead to severe moisture penetration, turning a small £500 repair into a much larger project once internal plaster and finishes are affected.

For residents in the UK, winter weather brings specific risks, particularly frozen pipes. In 2024, insurers handled thousands of claims for weather-related pipe damage, with average costs nearing £33,000. Simple steps like fitting pipe insulation, identifying the stopcock location, and stocking up on emergency essentials such as bottled water and warm clothing can significantly mitigate risks. Ensuring boilers are serviced before temperatures drop helps prevent system failures when heating systems are under the most pressure.

Garden maintenance is equally important; securing loose furniture and reinforcing fences against high winds can prevent secondary damage. In flood-prone areas, installing self-closing airbricks or keeping emergency sealants ready is advised. Maintaining a list of emergency numbers, including 105 for power outages and 0800 111999 for gas leaks, remains a key component of effective storm preparedness.

This summary was prepared with AI assistance. Please verify accuracy via the source.
Kaynak: The Guardian Money — https://www.theguardian.com/money/2026/oct/10/storm-proof-home-roof-garden-pipes-flooding-winter