Storm damage cover – Aviva

If Mother Nature does her worst and you need to file a storm damage claim, the quickest way to do so is through MyAviva. You will be able to register your claim and know all the important elements, such as your deductible and your level of cover. We may even be able to give you an instant decision online. No need to call us, we will contact you if we need more details.

To claim your home insurance, you will need to let us know exactly what happened to your property.

The storm must meet the following definition for us to move forward with your claim. An extreme weather event with persistent high winds with gusts normally exceeding 55 mph (48 knots) and/or heavy precipitation at a rate of at least 25 mm per hour and/or snow to a depth of at least 30 cm in 24 hours and/or hail of such intensity that it damages hard surfaces or breaks glass, according to our weather data. We will also consider other factors, such as the location of the property.

Typical property damage following a storm may include:

• Dislodged or missing tiles or slates
• Entire felt roofs were torn off
• Missing or dislodged ridge or ridge tiles
• Damage caused by fallen trees
• Water damage inside your home

Be sure to check the wording of your policy as we don’t cover some things, like damage to fences, hedges and gates, and in some cases the storm may only highlight a pre-existing problem with the roof.

Also not covered are long-term damage or damage due to maintenance issues or general wear and tear, such as:

• Deterioration of cement or mortar on masonry and chimneys
• Failed to render outside of building
• Gradual deterioration of any part of the roof or building
• Aged flat roofs

To help you get back to normal as quickly as possible, we may ask you to obtain a quote from a local tradesman to repair the damage.

If you are unable to obtain a repair quote or your property is not safe and secure, contact us. We will help you as quickly as possible.

When looking for help:

• Avoid cold calls
• Look for recommended or established traders
• Don’t pay anything in advance
• Check if the builder offers guarantees on the work
• Get at least two quotes for comparison, if possible
• Be aware of scams. Independent flood or disaster assessors may contact you and offer to handle your claim on your behalf, but many charge a fee, which may be taken out of your insurance settlement.

Any quote you receive must include a full description of the work required and be supported by photos of the damage.

Once you have your quote you can upload it with your claim via MyAviva or later via a link we will provide you.

In addition to any damage to buildings, be sure to list any property that was damaged by the storm inside or outside your home, along with supporting photos (I hope you you won’t need to take too much). It is best to keep these personal items and not throw them away, as they may be needed to advance your claim.