Batten down the hatches, storm henk is here

• The Met Office has issued a number of amber weather warnings for southern England, including London, and other parts of the UK, with up to 80 mph winds expected from Storm Henk

• Direct Line will be working to help customers hit by the storm with experts and extreme weather vehicles at the ready

With Storm Henk set to hit imminently, the Met Office has issued amber weather warnings for southern England, including London, as well as south Wales, the south Midlands and East Anglia, from 10am until 8pm today, with the possibility of winds reaching up to 80 mph. In preparation, Direct Line Home Insurance provides advice for householders on how to protect their homes.

The impact of a storm, especially from high winds can be substantial, with roof damage or a smashed window costing householders hundreds if not thousands of pounds to repair.

Anthony Woolley, Direct Line Field Manager comments: “With Storm Henk hitting several areas of the UK today, householders could face some seriously challenging weather conditions. It is incredibly important for them to take a few simple precautions in order to protect both themselves and their homes from the winter weather.

“Householders should keep up to date with local weather warnings and make sure any loose items that could potentially become dangerous projectiles in windy conditions are stored away in advance of the expected gales. Taking these simple steps can help keep disruption and damage to a minimum.”

Before high winds strike:

1. Shut and lock all windows and doors. Damage to garage and shed doors are also common claims so be sure to keep these closed and locked when not in use. This will not only prevent the wind blowing them off the hinges, but it is also good practice to keep your property secure to avoid falling victim to an opportunist burglary
2. Remove any debris or loose items from outside your home, while it is safe to do so
3. If possible, put your car in a garage or avoid parking near trees and other objects that could become unstable
4. Check where your family and any pets will be during the storm
5. Be prepared for power cuts by having a torch and blanket to hand

Once wind storms hit:

• Get in touch with your insurer as soon as possible, either by going online to register your claim or phoning our advisors. Direct Line will usually pay for emergency repairs that need to be carried out to stop the damage getting worse
• Take photographs of anything which has been damage by the storm, this may help streamline the settlement of your claim
• Use a plastic sheet or tarpaulin to temporarily repair storm-damaged roofs, if you can do so safely
• Whilst nearly half of all weather related claims are due to roof damage, your personal safety is paramount. If it is not safe to do so, do not attempt temporary repairs.

Whilst home buildings and contents insurance can’t help protect your home from the elements, having a comprehensive policy in place can ensure you’re not left out of pocket if the worst does happen.

Anthony Woolley continues: “We take every weather warning extremely seriously. We have emergency action plans in place, as well as teams on the ground and on the phones ready to assist customers if they need to make a claim. Our priority is to reassure householders and to get them back in their home as quickly as possible.”

Ends

Notes to editors:

1. Storm Henk named by Met Office - Met Office

For further information please contact:

Chelsey Wheeler

Deputy Head of News and Issues

Chelsey.wheeler@directlinegroup.co.uk

Direct Line

Started in 1985, Direct Line became the first UK insurance company to use the telephone as its main channel of communication. It provides motor, home, travel and pet insurance cover direct to customers by phone or on-line.

Direct Line general insurance policies are underwritten by U K Insurance Limited, Registered office: The Wharf, Neville Street, Leeds LS1 4AZ. Registered in England and Wales No 1179980. U K Insurance Limited is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority.

Direct Line and U K Insurance limited are both part of Direct Line Insurance Group plc.

Customers can find out more about Direct Line products or get a quote by calling 0345 246 3761 or visiting