Amber Weather Warnings - Protecting Mid-High Net Worth Homes from the Winter Storms

Amber Weather Warnings – Protecting Mid–High Net Worth Homes from the Winter Storms

The Met Office has issued amber weather warnings across parts of the UK, with strong winds and heavy rain expected to bring flooding, power cuts, and property damage. For mid–high net worth homeowners, these events can be especially disruptive - not just because of the value of the property itself, but because of the bespoke features and contents that make each home unique.

As a broker, now’s the perfect time to reach out to your clients with practical advice and reassurance that their policies and risk management plans are storm-ready.

Before the storm: prevention is key

Encourage clients to take a proactive approach in the days before severe weather hits.

• Secure outdoor features: High-value garden furniture, sculptures, and planters can become dangerous in high winds. These should be stored safely or anchored.
• Check roof integrity: Slate, tile, or thatched roofs on older or listed homes are particularly vulnerable - early maintenance is far cheaper and easier than repair.
• Drainage and guttering: Clear leaves and debris to prevent water ingress; flat roofs and roof terraces should be checked for pooling.
• Basement protection: If the home has a wine cellar, gym, or cinema below ground, ensure sump pumps and flood barriers are working.
• Outbuildings and garaging: Confirm automatic doors, pool houses, and stables are secured and that electrical systems are surge-protected.

During the storm: safety and vigilance

• Power backup: Many HNW homes have smart systems, alarms, or temperature-sensitive installations (such as wine stores or IT servers). Encourage clients to check their backup power sources - and to avoid using candles near valuable furnishings.
• Perimeter checks: Clients with estate staff or caretakers should instruct them to monitor boundaries and tree lines safely from indoors, avoiding direct exposure.
• Vehicle protection: Move prestige vehicles to enclosed garages away from trees or flood-prone drives.

After the storm: swift recovery

• Document and report promptly: Advise clients to take photos and detailed notes before arranging clean-up. Early documentation speeds claim settlement.
• Use pre-approved contractors: Many insurers have vetted restoration experts familiar with high-spec finishes and materials - these specialists can protect the value of the property.
• Security follow-up: Storms can cause alarm faults or power failures; ensure systems are reset to avoid vulnerabilities.

Why this matters for brokers

Proactive communication not only reduces claims severity but also demonstrates exceptional service - the cornerstone of private client broking.
Even a short call or pre-storm checklist email shows foresight and care. It reassures clients that their broker and insurer are aligned in protecting both their home and their lifestyle.

Encouraging clients to maintain their property in line with insurer expectations also helps ensure continued favourable underwriting terms and policy sustainability, supporting fair value across the portfolio.

Stay safe and connected - and if you or your clients need guidance on preventative measures or post-storm claims, our Private Clients team is here to help.