Ecclesiastical urges property owners to take precautions ahead of storm season
06 November 2024
Ecclesiastical Insurance is encouraging customers to take precautions to help prevent damage to property ahead of the coming storm season.
It comes as Met Eireann published its annual list of storm names for the upcoming storm season serving as a reminder to those responsible for property to prepare for extreme weather.
Over the 2023/2024 storm season, which runs from the 1st September 2023 to the 31st of August 2024, Ireland experienced 14 named storms in total, with high winds and heavy rainfall bringing widespread disruption and damage to properties across the country
Paul Collins, Head of Risk Management at Ecclesiastical Insurance Ireland, said: “Since Met Eireann started naming storms in 2015 it’s always caught the public attention. Storms can have a massive impact on our customers, so this announcement is a timely reminder for them to take steps to prepare for the winter weather.
“As ever, our expert risk teams are on hand to deal with customers' risk management queries. Our website also has a wide range of advice on how to prepare for a storm.”
Property owners can help to prevent damage by carrying out basic steps before the storms arrive:
- Before a storm - Prepare a recovery plan that covers how to deal with severe weather events, carry out maintenance of buildings and any trees or bushes, remove loose roof materials, repair damaged guttering, and clear any blocked rainwater gullies
- Storm warning – If Met Eireann declares a storm warning make sure to secure loose objects in the grounds, close and securely fasten doors and windows
- During the storm - Do not visit the property to repair any damage while the storm is in progress. If you have to go into the premises or are in the building during a storm, make sure to enter and leave the building through doors on the sheltered side, closing them behind
- After the storm - When the storm has passed if there is damage immediately contact your insurer who will be able to help you.
Michael Fleming, Head of Claims at Ecclesiastical Insurance Ireland, said: “Unpredictable and extreme weather is becoming more prevalent in Ireland, with an unprecedented number of named storms in the 12 months to August 2024. Our message to customers is that our claims team can support them if they are affected by storms floods or burst pipes this winter. We are here if customers need us.”