The insurer urges customers affected by recent storms to repair any damage as soon as possible, since delay can allow the problem to worsen and lead to a much larger insurance claim.

Common storm damage includes broken windows, structural damage from falling trees and branches, flooding, and loss of slates and tiles from the roof.

Within the first 24 hours after the gales on January 18th, the AA emergency helpline received as many calls as in a normal week.

Meanwhile, Abbey last week reported average claims after storm damage of £522 per home.

Spokesperson Prasad Shastri urged homeowners to ensure that cover is complete and to take steps to “prepare their property” for severe weather conditions.

AA is also advising customers to check for possible signs of incipient damage such as leaking pipes and slipping tiles to ensure that problems do not escalate.

Get information on Building Insurance and AA Home Insurance

Adfero Ltd