Homeowners are being advised to check their insurance policies ahead of winter, with the Association of British Insurers (ABI) highlighting that some risks may not be covered. Experts suggest a super El Niño could lead to more storms than usual this winter.
Weather-related claims for damage to homes and possessions reached over £200 million between January and April 2026, according to the ABI. While buildings insurance typically covers damage from hail, wind, rain, snow, and ice, including broken roofs and burst pipes, wear and tear is usually excluded. Accidental damage cover, which could address issues like water ingress through a poorly maintained roof, was found in only 25% of 72 home insurance policies analysed.
Flooding is generally included in standard buildings insurance, covering water from external sources. However, groundwater flooding, which results from a gradual build-up of water from beneath, was covered by only 42% of policies analysed. Freezing pipes are widely covered, with 99% of policies analysed paying out for damage from freezing or sudden temperature changes, though this may not apply if a home is unoccupied or due to poor maintenance.
Pest infestations, such as mice and rats, are not typically covered by standard home insurance for removal costs. However, if rodents cause damage like fires from chewed electrical cables, the resulting damage should be covered by buildings insurance.