Q&A: How to make an insurance claim for storm damage

Most motor policies do cover storm damage

Many people across the southern half of the UK are likely to be trying to contact insurance companies, to arrange compensation for damage caused by the storm.

Typical cases will include broken garden fences, dislodged roofing tiles and minor damage to cars hit by debris.

Insurers say they should be able to deal with all the calls fairly easily, as they are used to this type of weather "event".

"Their first priority will be to work as quickly as possible to deal with claims, and help customers recover," said Mark Shepherd, a policy adviser to the Association of British Insurers (ABI).

Should I contact my insurer immediately, or wait for a couple of days?

Am I covered for storm damage?

Can I arrange for repair work to be done immediately?

Who will assess the damage?

Should I appoint my own loss adjuster?

If a roof tile comes off, and causes damage to somebody else's property, am I covered?

Will insurance premiums go up as a result of this storm?

How much will this storm cost insurance companies?