10/18/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 10/18/2024 06:21
As we enter a new storm season, new external researchiii from insurer, Aviva, reveals that over a fifth (22%) of UK homes have suffered storm damage and 12% have experienced flooding in the last five years. Concerningly, two fifths of all homes (40%) have been impacted by some form of extreme weather.
Additionally, Aviva's own claims data reveals that almost a fifth (19%) of all UK home claims between 2020 and 2024 were related to storm damage.ii
Storm claims typically peak each year from October to March. December saw the highest percentage of storm claims (30%) across 2023, while 71% of claims submitted in February 2022, were due to storm, highlighting the unpredictable nature of storms across the winter months.
Last winter, the UK experienced twelve named storms, the highest number since the Met Office introduced the naming system in 2015. Yet despite this, Aviva's research from 2,000 residents across the UK, also revealed that worries about climate impacts on homes are lower than 2023.
Just over a third of people (34%) believe climate change will impact their home in the next year, compared to almost two fifths (38%) in 2023. Worryingly, those living in the highest flood risk areas are less likely to think climate change will impact their home in the next year, with only 28% believing this will happen.
Despite the prevalence of storms in recent years, heat is the biggest concern for most people (28%) with almost a quarter (24%) believing storms will affect their home and 17% of people concerned about floods.
Longer term worries about climate change impacts on homes are also lower than last year, with 45% concerned about an impact in five years (2023: 50%) and 54% in 10 years (2023: 58%).
Laura Lazarus, Head of Personal Lines Home Claims, at Aviva
Laura Lazarus, Head of Personal Lines Home Claims, at Aviva, says: "Over the last five years, two fifths of homes across the UK have experienced damage from extreme weather, highlighting the significant impact that severe weather can have on our communities, especially if they are underprepared. Last winter alone, we faced 12 named storms, and this year, the storm season has started even earlier than usual, with rainy British weather in full force and more storms inevitable.
"At Aviva, we understand the importance of being prepped ahead of extreme weather events, which can include inspecting the roof for damaged or missing tiles to help prevent leaks, securing outdoor items and preparing an emergency kit with essentials just in case. Staying informed via reliable weather forecasts can also make a significant difference in ensuring personal safety and minimising damage to property.
"The right home insurance is also crucial in helping provide financial protection and peace of mind to customers during extreme weather events, ensuring that individuals and families can recover and rebuild after any destructive storms. As storms can highlight defects or damage due to lack of maintenance, customers should always check their documents to understand what is and isn't covered."
Below, Aviva is helping people get ready for this year's batch of bad weather:
More advice and information about protecting your home from extreme weather can be found on Aviva's extreme weather hub.
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i. The research was conducted by Censuswide, among a sample of 2,022 Nationally Representative UK Consumers, aged 16+ including 539 homeowners whose homes have been built within the last five years. The data was collected between 31.07.2024 - 08.08.2024. Censuswide abides by and employs members of the Market Research Society and follows the MRS code of conduct which is based on the ESOMAR principles.
ii. Aviva is supporting Flood Re's Build Back Better scheme by offering the ability to install up to £10k in flood resilience measures during the repair process following a buildings flood claim of £25k or more.
Karmen Ivey
General Insurance
Phone
+44 (0) 7385 013 292