In recent years, storms have become more frequent and increasingly severe, and 2026 looks set to continue this trend. I Am The Agent are seeing the impact first-hand across both rental properties and owner-occupied homes. Climate change is contributing to more unpredictable weather, stronger winds and higher storm surges linked to rising sea levels, placing all types of property at greater risk.

Storm damage claims are now second only to escape of water claims, with the most common problems including roof damage, flooding, fallen trees and broken fencing. Whether you let out a property or live in it yourself, preparation is key to reducing damage, disruption and repair costs.

This guide sets out practical steps I recommend to both landlords and homeowners to help protect their properties, minimise risk and deal effectively with storm damage if it occurs.

1. Stay ahead by tracking the weather

Weather forecasting has improved significantly in recent years, making it easier to prepare for severe conditions. The Met Office continues to name storms each season to raise awareness and highlight potential risks. Storms already experienced in 2026, alongside recent years’ events bringing wind speeds of up to 100mph and widespread flooding, demonstrate how quickly damage can occur.

I Am The Agent advise property owners to set up weather alerts through trusted sources such as the Met Office or reliable weather apps. With storms arriving earlier and often causing more damage, keeping a close eye on forecasts and acting promptly is essential. Early preparation can protect not only the building itself but also the safety of occupants and neighbours.

2. Communication is essential

If you own a rental property, communication with tenants is crucial when severe weather is forecast. You may want to attend the property to carry out emergency checks or preparations, but landlords must usually give at least 24 hours’ notice before accessing a property. If a storm is imminent, tenants are often willing to allow access if the situation is clearly explained.

Where access isn’t possible, checking in with tenants to ensure everything is secure is still important.

For owner-occupiers, many of the same checks apply, but you will be able to act immediately without the need to arrange access.

Steps that can help protect both rented and owner-occupied homes ahead of a storm include:

• Checking for loose roof tiles and guttering, which account for a large proportion of storm damage

• Storing garden furniture, plant pots, children’s toys and other loose items indoors or in a shed

• Putting away lawnmowers and electrical garden equipment

• Reinforcing windows with plywood if an exceptionally severe storm is forecast

• Using sandbags where there is a flood warning

• Ensuring all windows and doors are fully closed and securely fastened

Taking these precautions reduces the risk of damage and helps protect occupants, visitors and passers-by from falling debris.

For landlords, maintaining a good relationship with tenants makes it easier to manage these situations. I recommend routine property inspections every six months, carried out in daylight so both the interior and exterior can be thoroughly checked. Roofs and gardens should be a particular focus when preparing for stormy weather.

3. Make sure your property is storm-ready

Regular maintenance is the most effective way to prepare any property for severe weather. Whether the home is rented or owner-occupied, ongoing upkeep reduces the likelihood of damage, especially if a storm arrives with little warning.

Carrying out the following checks once or twice a year can make a significant difference.

Clear gutters and drains
Remove leaves, moss and debris from gutters, downpipes and drains to prevent blockages and water overflow. Late autumn is an ideal time, before freezing temperatures set in. For rental properties, landlords are responsible for maintaining external structures such as guttering and drains under Section 11 of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1985.

Trim trees and shrubs
Cut back low-hanging or unstable branches that could fall during high winds, particularly where they overhang buildings, paths or neighbouring properties. Winter is often the best time to do this, as bare branches make potential problems easier to identify.

Inspect the roof and carry out repairs
Check for loose, cracked or missing tiles or slates, as these are vulnerable during high winds. Inspect chimneys for loose brickwork and ensure storm collars are fitted to prevent water entering the loft. I recommend checking roofs before winter and again afterwards to assess any damage.

Check windows and doors
Water ingress is one of the most common storm-related issues. Make sure windows and doors are secure and watertight. In particularly exposed locations, temporary boarding or permanent shutters may be worth considering.

Secure fences and gates
Fence panels are often not covered by insurance in the event of storm damage. Ensure posts are sound, panels are firmly fixed and gates are in good working order. Replacing weak fencing with durable, weather-resistant materials can reduce the risk of damage.

4. Ensure you have the right insurance in place

Storm damage can be extremely expensive to repair, particularly where flooding is involved. Having the correct insurance in place provides essential financial protection.

Homeowners should ensure their buildings insurance covers storm and flood damage, while landlords should have specialist landlord insurance rather than standard home insurance, which is not designed for rental properties. A suitable policy should cover repair costs and may also include loss of rent or alternative accommodation if the property becomes uninhabitable.

What to do if your property is damaged by a storm

Despite the best preparation, storm damage can still occur. If it does, safety must always come first.

If a property has flooded, gas and electricity supplies should be turned off immediately. Emergency services or the local authority may require evacuation. Where a home becomes uninhabitable due to a natural event, the local council will usually assist with emergency accommodation. However, if damage is linked to a known issue that was not addressed, landlords or homeowners may be liable for associated costs.

I Am The Agent always advise contacting your insurer as soon as possible after damage occurs. Take clear, time- and date-stamped photographs before carrying out any repairs. Avoid permanent repair work until your insurer has confirmed next steps, as they may wish to arrange an inspection.

Final thoughts

Whether you own a rental property or live in your home, protecting it against storms requires planning, regular maintenance and prompt action when severe weather is forecast. Keeping an eye on weather reports, maintaining the property and ensuring the right insurance is in place can significantly reduce the impact of storms.

With severe weather events becoming more common, preparation is no longer optional. Taking preventative steps now helps protect your property, your finances and, most importantly, the people who live there.