What to Do if You Think Your Property Has Been Affected by a Storm
A Practical Action Plan for UK Homeowners
Storms and severe weather can affect properties in different ways, and not all issues are immediately obvious. If you think your home may have been impacted, the steps below can help you respond calmly, safely, and effectively.
Prioritise Safety First
Before checking anything, consider safety.
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Avoid climbing ladders or accessing the roof
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Be cautious around loose debris, fallen branches, or damaged fencing
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Do not touch loose cables or anything that could be electrical
If there is an immediate danger (such as structural instability or exposed electrics), contact the appropriate emergency services or your local council.
Carry Our a Visual Check From the Ground
Once it’s safe to do so, take a look around your property from ground level.
Things you may be able to spot include:
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Missing, cracked, or slipped roof tiles
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Debris on the roof or in gutters
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Damage around chimneys or roof edges
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Loose or damaged guttering or downpipes
You don’t need to identify the cause — this step is simply about noticing anything that looks different from usual.
Check Inside the Property
Some storm-related issues show up indoors rather than outside.
Keep an eye out for:
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Damp patches or water marks on ceilings and walls
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Drips or leaks, particularly in loft spaces
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Changes in smells, such as damp or mustiness
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Peeling paint or wallpaper near the ceiling
These signs don’t always appear immediately and may develop days after a storm.
Document Anything You Notice
If you spot anything unusual, make a simple record.
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Take clear photos or short videos from a safe position
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Note the date and approximate time
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Keep a brief description of what you’ve observed
This can be useful later if you need to speak to a professional or contact your insurer.
Avoid Temporary Fixes That Could Cause Further Damage
It can be tempting to try quick fixes, but some actions can make things worse.
Avoid:
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Walking on the roof
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Moving tiles or roofing materials yourself
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Using sealants or tape without proper assessment
Uninformed repairs can increase damage or create safety risks.
Consider a Professional Inspection
If you’re unsure about the condition of your roof or chimney, a professional inspection can help clarify what’s going on.
In many cases:
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Issues are minor and manageable when identified early
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Not all damage requires immediate repair
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A clear visual record can help you make informed decisions
Modern inspection methods, such as drone surveys, allow roof areas to be assessed without ladders or physical access, which can be safer — particularly after storms.
Check Your Home Insurance Policy (If Needed)
If damage is confirmed:
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Review your policy wording
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Check time limits for reporting storm-related issues
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Keep all documentation and photos together
Your insurer may ask for evidence of the damage and when it occurred.
Plan Next Steps With Confidence
Once you understand the condition of your property, you can decide what — if anything — needs to be done.
That might include:
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Monitoring a minor issue
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Scheduling maintenance
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Seeking quotes for repairs if required
Having clear information helps avoid unnecessary work and unexpected costs.
A Note for Homeowners in the North West
Properties in the North West are regularly exposed to heavy rain, wind, and changing temperatures. Periodic roof awareness — particularly after storms — can help homeowners stay informed about their property’s condition.
About this guidance
This action plan is provided for general informational purposes only and does not replace professional advice. Property construction, exposure, and weather impacts vary.
More information about roof inspection methods and examples can be found on the Three Weave website.