With storm season approaching, taking a number of simple measures will help minimise damage to your property. Keep an eye out for any maintenance required or potential hazards on your property:
- Clean dead leaves and other debris from your gutters to avoid rainwater overflowing onto your roof
- Check Roof tiles and slates are secure so you do not get water damage in the loft/roof space
- Check your aerial is properly secured
- Remove dead/damaged branches from any trees which could damage your property in stormy weather
- Store your garden furniture in a property sealed shed, garage, or conservatory
- Make sure your front gate is properly locked
Take heed of weather warnings in force and be prepared for power outages – Some simple tips:
- Make sure your mobile phone is charged fully
- Be patient with overstretched ESB workers working in difficult conditions
- Have candles and torches handy
- Don’t underestimate the conditions or be bravado about your driving ability – let the storm pass
- Have the emergency services numbers on your phone
In the aftermath of #StormEllen, Insurance Ireland, the umbrella body for the insurance industry, have issued advice to householders about what to do if you have suffered #stormdamage to your property.
II has confirmed that householders with comprehensive home and contents #insurance can expect to be covered for storm damage, although it advised customers to check their policies as soon as possible after damage has occurred.
Once safe to do so, assess the damage to your home. Take photos, if possible, as they may help with your #insuranceclaims. If items in your home have been damaged by water, you may remove them from your home, but don’t dispose of them yet as insurers may need to look at them. Insurers will usually pay for the cost of temporary repairs, so please also keep receipts.
For more information and numbers you can contact for help and advice please visit the Insurance Ireland website.