As the weather cools and rainfall increases, now is the time to get ahead of the issues that typically show up in winter.
Water damage, storm impacts and preventable maintenance issues are some of the most common causes of insurance claims during this period, often from small problems that were already there.
A few simple checks now can make a significant difference to your risk of winter weather-related damage:
Exterior & Drainage
(Where most winter damage starts)
1. Clean your gutters and remove debris
Blocked gutters are one of the leading causes of water ingress.
Leaves and debris prevent water from flowing freely, leading to overflow into roof cavities, walls and internal spaces.
While you’re there, check that gutters are securely fixed and not sagging.
2. Check your roof for damage
Inspect for cracked tiles, rust, loose sheeting or damaged flashing.
Even minor issues can allow water in during prolonged rain or storms, and often go unnoticed until damage appears internally.
3. Clear downpipes and check drainage
It’s not just about clearing gutters – make sure downpipes are free-flowing and directing water away from the building.
If water is backing up or pooling near the structure, it increases the risk of internal flooding and structural damage.
4. Look for pooling water around your property
Check external areas for poor drainage, especially near foundations.
Water sitting against a building over time can lead to internal damage, rising damp or structural issues.
5. Trim overhanging trees and branches
Overhanging branches can cause damage during storms and contribute to blocked gutters.
Clearing them back reduces both immediate storm risk and ongoing maintenance issues.
6. Inspect walls for cracks or gaps
Small cracks or gaps in external walls can allow water to enter, particularly during heavy or wind-driven rain.
Seal any openings before they become bigger problems.
Openings and Entry Points
(Where water gets in)
7. Check seals around windows and doors
Worn or damaged seals are a common entry point for water.
Make sure seals are intact and replace them where needed to prevent leaks during storms.
8. Check garage doors and low entry points
Garages and ground-level entry points are particularly vulnerable during heavy rain.
Inspect seals and thresholds to ensure they’re preventing water from entering.
Systems & Internal Checks
(Pressure-points that are put to the test in winter)
9. Inspect plumbing and internal systems
Check for any existing leaks, worn fittings or pressure issues.
Small plumbing problems can escalate quickly under increased winter usage.
10. Service heating and electrical systems
With increased use over winter, heating systems and electrical components should be checked to reduce the risk of faults or fire hazards.
11. Know where shut-off valves are
Plumbing can break! Whether it is a leaky faucet or a full blown pipe burst. Ensure you know how to shut the water off. It’s not something you want to have to learn in an emergency.
Secondly, do a shut off at least once a year. Valves can become corroded and start to not work. Again, the time to find out you have a bad shutoff valve is NOT in an emergency scenario
Cover & Preparedness
12. Review your insurance cover
Autumn is a good time to review your policy before peak weather events.
Check what you’re covered for in relation to storm damage, water ingress, flood and business interruption.
If you’re unsure, it’s worth having a quick conversation with your broker.
13. Document your property condition
Take photos or videos of your property now.
If damage does occur later, having a clear record can help streamline the claims process.
A small investment of time now can prevent bigger issues later
Most winter-related damage doesn’t come from unexpected events—it comes from small, existing issues made worse by weather.
A simple check-through now can help protect your property, reduce disruption and avoid unnecessary costs down the line.
If you’re unsure whether your current cover aligns with your risks heading into winter, our team is here to help.