How to prepare for stormy weather
It's extremely important to fix potential problems in advance, like loose slates and remove dead tree branches, so that they don’t cause damage during a storm. Here’s what to do in advanced of a weather warning.
Protecting Your Home:
- Close all windows and doors, especially large doors like garage or patio doors.
- Put garden furniture in a garage or shed or bring it inside.
- Close washing line poles or take them down.
- Check that TV aerials and satellite dishes are securely fastened and that cables and electric wires are secure.
- Clear leaves and debris from gutters to prevent water damage from heavy downpours.
- Clear drains to make sure rain water can flow freely into them. For practical steps that reduce flood risk, see our flood prevention tips.
- Check there are no loose roof slates or loose coverings on sheds.
- Secure fences, repair garden walls, and fix any gates that don't close firmly so they're not further damaged by wind.
- Park cars in a garage or away from trees, fences and garden walls.
- Remove dead tree branches and check trees for root and branch damage.
- During the storm, stay indoors and don't go outside to try and repair damage.
- Unplug electronics to protect against lightning strikes during the storm.
- Dismantle any trampolines and make sure to bring them indoors.
Protecting Your Car:
If possible, park your car in a garage but at the very least, at a safe distance from any trees or loose debris that may become a risk during high winds. Hail can cause significant damage to your vehicle, including dents and cracked windscreens, so covered parking is ideal.
If your windscreen is damaged, check our guidance on windscreen cover for information on repairs and replacements.
Safer parking in flood risk areas
Avoid:
- Areas that are susceptible to flooding, including coastal flooding zones
- Parking near the coastline or a river
- Parking underneath or close to power lines
- Driving through water, as there may be hidden dangers there
- Unnecessary trips during severe weather
Staying safe in the storm
During the storm, stay indoors and don't go outside to try to repair damage. If urgent repairs are needed, our home rescue emergency service can arrange immediate assistance.
If you have to drive, please make sure your lights are on and leave extra room between you and the car in front of you.
Where to get storm updates in Ireland
Be sure to keep an eye on www.met.ie for the latest weather forecast and gale warnings issued by meteorologists. These warnings provide important storm updates.
How do you make a storm damage claim
If the worst happens and you need to make a claim on your Home Insurance policy, you can contact our Claims Team on (01) 290 1999 or log a claim online here.
Have your policy number and a short description of the damage ready so we can start helping you quickly. Once you contact us, our team will explain the next steps and send you any forms you need to complete.
We typically experience high call volumes during and shortly after storms, so you can also visit our storm advice page to find answers to some of the most commonly asked questions and issues relating to storm damage.
