Save money by storm-proofing your property

Tuesday, November 24th 2009

Homeowners have been urged to take steps to ensure their property is protected against the ravages of storms and other severe weather.

Cliff D'Arcy of lovemoney.com advises ensuring all home insurance documents are stored safely in a waterproof bag and knowing where to find the stop cock to turn off the water supply in the event of a leak or flood.

All doors and windows should be as secure as possible and ideally fitted with mortice locks.

If a flood is likely to occur, all valuables should be able to be easily moved upstairs and homeowners must have access to an emergency kit that includes candles, matches, duct tape to seal damaged areas, a first-aid kit, food and drink, and a torch and batteries.

Mr D'Arcy also recommended securing all outbuildings, mending fences and gates and locking away garden objects.

The Association of British Insurers has advised those affected by the recent floods in Cumbria to contact their insurance provider as soon as possible and to arrange temporary repairs to prevent water damage from getting worse.