Barclays supports customers through the storm
The UK is set to take a battering this week, with the Met Office issuing warnings of gale force winds of up to 80mph in some places. Barclays is advising customers to take basic precautions and is on standby to help customers who might be impacted by the stormy weather.
The UK is set to take a battering this week, with the Met Office issuing warnings of gale force winds of up to 80mph in some places. Barclays is advising customers to take basic precautions and is on standby to help customers who might be impacted by the stormy weather.
Weather is the single most common cause of insurance claims, with 22 per cent being made as a direct result of floods, storms or fallen trees as well as damage caused by broken or leaking pipes.
Kieran Murphy, Managing Director of Barclays Insurance said: "We want to reassure our Barclays Home Insurance customers that they are covered for damage caused to the home as a result of the imminent storm. This includes damage caused by wind or rain and we'll also cover the cost of alternative accommodation should customers need to move out of their homes if severe damage occurs.
"We are advising customers to act immediately and take basic precautions to protect themselves and their properties, whilst also giving them the reassurance that we are here to help."
Before the storm
Customers with a Barclays Home Insurance policy - and in fact any homeowner worried about potential storm damage - could help to minimise the impact by taking a few basic steps to protect their property:
Park the car in a garage, or away from large trees.
Secure or lock- away loose objects such as garden furniture and ornaments, bikes, children's toys and ladders.
Fasten all doors and windows.
With electrical storms, remove the aerial from the TV set.
Check for loose tiles on the roof
Secure any weak fences and posts - to minimise the risk of causing damage to other parts of your property
Check aerials or satellite dishes are securely fixed
After the storm
If the property suffers damage, customers with a Barclays Home Insurance policy should immediately call 0800 027 9844, for assistance with their claim and to get advice on how to prevent further damage. Customers should note that an insurance policy is not a maintenance policy - most companies expect the home to be in reasonable condition, wear and tear isn't covered. Fences, gates and hedges that have blown down as a direct result of high winds are also generally excluded.