Storm Bram swept across Ireland last week, and while Galway escaped the worst of the winds, many homes in other parts of the country were left without power. With storm season now under way, Irish households are being urged to take proactive steps to protect their properties before the next storm arrives.
Storm damage remains one of the most common and costly home insurance claims in Ireland, yet many serious issues can be avoided with simple preparation. To help homeowners stay ahead of the storms, Conor Mulcahy, head of product and renewals at Quote Devil, has shared five expert tips every homeowner needs to know.
Check your roof and gutters
Inspect your roof and gutters for any signs of damage. Loose, cracked, or missing tiles or shingles can let rainwater in, leading to damp, mould, and costly internal damage.
Clogged gutters can cause water to overflow onto exterior walls or pool at the base of your property, potentially leading to serious water ingress and structural issues. Ensuring roof tiles and guttering are secure and free of debris can help prevent these small issues from turning into major headaches.
Secure outdoor furniture and garden items
High winds can turn garden furniture, bins, ornaments, and other loose items into dangerous flying hazards. To prevent this, ensure that anything that could be picked up by strong gusts is properly anchored or stored safely.
Patio furniture, potted plants, trampolines, and even children’s toys can be lifted and thrown during a storm, potentially causing injury or damaging your home or your neighbour’s.
Inspect doors and windows
Make sure all doors and windows close securely, with no gaps or weak points that could let in wind or rain. Repair or replace worn seals to prevent drafts, water ingress, and heat loss.
In areas prone to strong winds or flying debris, consider upgrading to reinforced glass or installing storm shutters for added protection. These steps can help safeguard your home’s interior and reduce the risk of future costly weather-related damage.
Review your home insurance policy
Check that your home insurance policy covers storm damage, including outbuildings, fences, and garden structures, which are often excluded.
Update your cover if you have made home improvements or purchased high-value items, and keep digital and physical copies of your policy and receipts to help make any future claims faster and easier.
Prepare an emergency kit and plan
Power cuts can be common during storms, particularly in rural areas, so it’s wise to keep essentials like flashlights, spare batteries, and a phone power bank on hand.
Create a list of important contacts and ensure that everyone in your household knows what to do in the event of a power outage, including where to find supplies and how to stay in touch if mobile service is disrupted.
