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For UK customers only

Storms

What's the definition of a storm?

Norwich Union defines a storm as an "unusual weather event" It is persistent high winds, severe rainfall or snowstorms probably but not necessarily accompanied by wind. It also includes tornados

What's covered. And what's not?

What’s covered:

Typical examples of claims, which result from storms are damage to roofing tiles, roofs, chimneys, aerials and dishes, windows, garden walls, garden sheds and greenhouses. These will all be covered under the buildings policy. Damage to the customer's property caused by falling trees, including terraces, patios, drives, paths and fences are all covered.

Our policies also cover the cost of getting rid of fallen trees, if the buildings are also damaged.

As a rule of thumb, providing the property has been well maintained, damage resulting from severe weather will usually be covered.

What’s not covered:

Fences, gates or hedges that have blown down as a direct result of high winds are not covered.

What to do before the storm

Although it is very difficult to take proactive action against storms, there are some steps that homeowners can take to minimise damage. Preventative action is best, particularly as poor maintenance can invalidate an insurance claim.

Homeowners should check the following areas, which may be in need of repair:

Loose tiles, corroded nails and weak mortar joints on roofs.
Crumbling brickwork on chimneys or leaning stacks on roofs.
Weak fences and posts, poor brickwork on boundary walls.
Damaged aerial or satellite dish fixtures.
Trees near the home – call in a tree surgeon if necessary.

If there is advanced warning of a storm it is also advisable to take the following action:

Park the car in a garage, or away from large trees.
Secure loose objects such as garden furniture and ladders.
Fasten all doors and windows.
With electrical storms, remove the aerial from the TV set.

What to do after the storm

If your property suffers damage, do report the matter to your insurer promptly. Most companies will have appointed repair companies who will be able to help with securing and protecting your property from further damage by the elements. The repair companies will prioritise calls, so that help will be given first to those domestic customers who have suffered more severe property damage. Help will also be given to commercial organisations to limit any disruption to their businesses.

Roof tiles blown off, often in conjunction with damage to gutters, fascias etc.
TV/radio aerials damaged. These are covered under the contents rather than buildings section.
Fences blown down. These are not covered.
Breakage of glass – most often greenhouse glass.
Lifting of roofing felt, particularly on sheds. Also flat roofs although this can only be claimed if the roof had previously been in good condition.
Damage to chimneys, ridges.
Trees falling down and damaging buildings, fences etc. Norwich Union will pay the cost to remove fallen part of the tree off the damaged building and to remove it from the customer's land.
Boundary walls blown down. These are covered only if they had previously been in good condition.

To make a claim, Norwich Union Direct customers should call 0800 222500 (lines open 24hrs a day). For all other household claims customers should call Norwich Union Clubline on 0800 012345 (lines open 24 hrs a day).