Storm Babet causes most disruption to UK homes over winter storm period

• In excess of 2300 weather related claims received by Tesco Bank in 2023/2024 storm season as UK was hit with multiple extreme weather events
• Tesco Bank sees more than 230 weather related home claims caused by January’s Storm Henk
• Tesco Bank urges Brits to keep safe and to have right level of cover for any storm damage caused

According to Tesco Bank’s internal data, Storm Isha was the worst offender of the 2023/2024 storm period, creating 1489 of the weather related home claims received from customers this winter.

The season’s storm period, which started in September, saw Storm Babet cause serious damage through both storm and flood in October. It led to 231 storm related claims, while the remaining 51 were flood damage claims causing huge damage to properties.

This January’s Storm Henk also caused havoc across the nation, bringing heavy rainfall, strong winds and flooding to much of the UK. Storm claims were the most common claim type submitted, followed by flood claims and impact from fallen trees. Flood damage from Storm Henk caused most damage to homes, with average claim costs exceeding £30,000.

Dave Thompson, Director of Claims at Tesco Bank, comments: “From Storm Agnes to Storm Jocelyn, we’ve experienced one of the stormiest winter periods for some time. And they’ve wreaked havoc across parts of the UK with strong winds and heavy rainfall causing damage to homes and flooding.

“As our weather becomes increasingly unpredictable it’s important we’re all aware of the steps to take to keep ourselves and our loved ones safe, and our homes as protected as possible.

“While some parts of the country may have experienced milder weather conditions, we are still in the midst of winter and it’s important to keep on top of any potential issues which may occur from bad weather, including burst pipes or leaky roofs.

“If you do spot any problems, there are steps to be taken such as turning off water or mains electricity supplies and contacting your insurer as soon as it’s safe to.”

Dave shares his top tips to ensure homes are prepared for cold and extreme weather events:

1. Weather watch

Some of the busiest days for our claims team follow named storms, and while it may be impossible to stop a storm from hitting, it’s possible to prepare for them so their impact isn’t as bad. Have your roof inspected and repair any cracked, damaged or broken tiles that could come loose during high winds and ensure your garden furniture is secure or safely stored. Also make sure fences, gates and hedges are secure and in good repair. Most storm damage cover usually excludes these parts of your property, so it's better to repair now rather than pay out-of-pocket to replace them later.

2. Prepare a flood emergency kit

Having an emergency stash of supplies could help keep you and your family safe and warm should a flood occur. In your kit you may want to include first aid equipment, bottled water, food, a torch (in case you lose power), an emergency contacts sheet, prescribed medication, blankets, clothing, insurance documents and money. If you have infants or elderly people in your household you should also pack any special items that they may need.

3. Check your home insurance

Winter is a busy time for home insurance claims, with problems cropping up for many. Hopefully you won’t need to make a claim, but just in case you do, check your home insurance policy is up to date. If you’re ever in doubt about how to look after your home during the winter months, particularly when it comes to such things as heating, be sure to contact a specialist.

4. Keep an eye on the pipes

You’ll find that pipes that are not insulated, or in colder areas of the house like basements and attics, are more prone to bursting. Check to see if the pipes are easily accessible so you can insulate them with foam or fiberglass sleeves, both of which you can pick up fairly cheaply.

5. Check your hot water

A cold snap is the worst time to start experiencing difficulties with your hot water supply and boiler. If you can, before the weather starts to get really cold, run a quick test of your heating system. This way you can check if your boiler and radiators are working well, and get some help if you need to. It’s also advised to get your boiler serviced annually, preferably before winter.

Consider bleeding your radiators. Air can sometimes get inside the system and stop your radiators getting hot. Use a radiator key to undo the valves and you might hear some hissing as the air escapes. Once you start getting only water, tighten the valve and test your system again. Finally, let warm air circulate throughout your house by keeping inside doors open.

6. Find where your stop cock is

Your stop cock turns off the cold water supply to your house and is essential if you have a burst pipe. It usually has a W on it or will say ‘water’ and can often be found in your kitchen, near the boiler, or under the stairs – however it can sometimes be outside on or near the driveway. Find where it is and let anyone else you live with know as well so you can react quickly if a pipe bursts.