Things to check in the home
Roof
Take a look from ground level for potential problem areas such as missing or loose tiles that could dislodge in high winds, exposed underlay, a dodgy chimney stack or cracked asphalt on a flat roof.
A drone inspection can be a safe and affordable alternative to using scaffolding or ladders, plus their high-res cameras and thermal-imaging equipment can provide you with a comprehensive survey of what's up there.
Looking for tips on finding a good roofer?Gutters
These can easily become filled with moss, leaves and other debris, leading to leaks inside your property and putting strain on gutter brackets.
Clean them out before a storm, but rather than risk a fall from a ladder (especially if the gutters are on upper storeys), get an expert in.
Be inspired to make home improvements.Windows
Before a storm, look for gaps and cracks around your windows, make sure the lock mechanisms work to avoid windows blowing open, and check that the glass isn't cracked, as this could go on to break entirely if wind speeds are high.
You may be able to carry out some basic window repair jobs yourself. For example, you could use filler such as caulk or rubber-foam insulation to fix gaps or cracks.
If you end up needing to replace your double-glazed windows or doors, see the for your homeElectrics
During a storm, water can get into electrical components outside - for example, if a socket is left open after unplugging a hot tub, or a clogged drainpipe drips water onto an outside wall light.
Even electrics inside can be affected, either because of a leak from outside or by a power surge from lightning that can damage electrical devices such as computers and TVs.
Minimise this risk by having a surge-protection device (SPD) fitted into your consumer unit (the modern version of a fuse board) to conduct any transient overvoltage to earth as soon as it's detected.
Surge-protection extension leads may help to protect some of your devices. Always buy one with a CE mark from a reputable manufacturer, check it can be used with your appliance and replace around every two years.
undefinedundefinedPets
The loud noises, flashes of light and strong winds of a storm can terrify pets. Here's what veterinary charity PDSA advises.
Close all windows and curtains. Create a 'safe space' for them.Update microchip details.Bring small pets inside.Emergency kit
It may be that a storm passes without event for your household, but it's good to be prepared with an emergency kit in case it doesn't. Your 'grab bag' could include:
Things to check in the garden
Fencing
Fences can bear the brunt of storms. Their large surface area means they catch high winds and can be prone to breaking, collapsing or even being uprooted and blown away.
Check your fence beforehand to see if it's wobbling or leaning, has any loose or broken panels or has posts that wiggle and could break free from the ground in stormy weather.
Your fence may run along a border with your neighbours, so talk to them before you or a tradesperson carries out any repairs, to minimise the risk of disputes brewing.
Trees
If trees overhang part of your home - especially a conservatory, greenhouse or your garden fence - have the branches trimmed back to reduce the chances of them snapping off and causing damage.
A qualified tree surgeon can assess your tree to identify any weak spots, pruning tree limbs and branches and even putting in braces to reinforce the base of a weakened tree.
Garden furniture and play equipment
Whether it's garden furniture, flowerpots, children's trampolines, bicycles, rotary washing lines or ladders, all manner of otherwise innocent items can have the potential to wreak havoc if they're blown around in a storm.
Store them in a shed, outbuilding or garage to prevent them flying into windows, conservatories or a neighbouring garden. If this isn't possible, lie them flat and weigh them down with something heavy, such as sandbags.
Garage
Secure garage doors so they don't potentially break in high winds. If you have a car, put it in the garage to protect it from falling debris or trees.
Fix your gate so high winds don't take it off its hinges - a drop rod at the bottom can help to stabilise it. Cable ties may help, too, if you've run out of time for more permanent repairs.
Make more of your garden -What do you do once the storm starts?
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Head inside and stay there
This is the safest place to be, so plan your day around it. If you're caught unawares, seek shelter as soon as you hear the rumble of thunder.
If going out can't be avoided, don't walk or shelter close to trees, especially if they are tall or isolated. The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) says it's estimated one in four people struck by lightning are sheltering under trees.
Also, keep away from the sheltered side of boundary fences and walls because if they fail, this is the side they'll collapse on.
Don't go outside to repair damage
Tempting though it may be to venture outside to examine a tree limb that's fallen on a car, or a fence panel that's blown down, you could end up being injured.
Avoid outdoor leisure activities
These include golf, climbing and camping, where you may be exposed to the elements and could be using equipment that could conduct lightning, such as golf clubs and umbrellas.
RoSPA says research has shown that being near water increases the risk of being struck by lightning, so activities such as fishing, boating, swimming or even walking near water should be avoided too.
Turn on the dehumidifier
A dehumidifier won't solve serious flood damage but it can help to remove excess moisture from the air to speed up the process of drying out your home.
Don't use water-damaged electrical items
Water-damaged appliances shouldn't be used until a qualified electrician has inspected them and carried out a PET (portable appliance test) to confirm their safety.
Even if it looks fine to the naked eye, trying to use a water-damaged appliance could cause further damage to it or even give you a shock.
You can use Which? Trusted Traders to find an electrician nearby.
Does home insurance cover storm damage?
Make a record of the damage that's been caused by writing down details, taking photos and recording video footage.
Check you're covered for the following:
Frozen food spoiling if electricity goes off. Disruption to your travel plans.The need for temporary accommodation.Damage to vehicles. Injury or damage to others.undefinedsource https://www.which.co.uk/news/article/storm-damage-how-to-protect-your-home-from-a-thunderstorm-a5u2L3n0ZeWO