Autumn and winter bring the UK's worst weather — high winds, heavy rain, and the kind of conditions that turn small, unnoticed problems into expensive emergencies. Fences blow down, loose roof tiles become missing roof tiles, and overgrown trees become a genuine hazard. The good news: most storm damage is preventable with a few checks before the weather hits, not after.
Here's what to look at now, and which trades can help if you spot a problem.
1. Fencing
Fences take the brunt of strong winds, and a fence that's been fine for years can fail the moment gusts pick up.
What to check:
- Loose or rotting fence posts — give each panel a gentle push; if it wobbles at the base, the post may be compromised
- Panels with visible warping, splitting, or water damage
- Gate hinges and latches, which often go first in high winds
- Concrete post bases for cracks
Why it matters: A collapsed fence isn't just inconvenient — it can damage neighbouring property, injure someone, or leave your garden exposed to the next storm. If you share a boundary fence, check who's responsible for it before assuming it's a shared repair cost.
2. Trees and overhanging branches
Tree surgeons see their busiest season right before and after major storms — for good reason. A healthy-looking tree can still have weak limbs that come down in high wind.
What to check:
- Dead, cracked, or hanging branches, especially over driveways, roofs, or neighbouring gardens
- Trees leaning more than they used to, or with visible root movement at the base
- Overgrown branches close to power lines — never attempt to deal with these yourself; contact your local network operator
- Ivy-covered trees, which hide trunk damage and add extra wind resistance
Why it matters: Falling branches or trees are one of the most common causes of storm-related injury and property damage. If a tree is on or near a boundary with a neighbour, get it checked before it becomes their problem, and yours.
3. Roofing
Loose tiles and damaged flashing are often invisible from the ground until a storm rips them off entirely.
What to check:
- Missing, cracked, or slipped tiles (binoculars from the garden are safer than a ladder for a quick check)
- Guttering and downpipes clear of leaves and debris, so heavy rain doesn't back up and overflow into the roofline
- Flashing around chimneys and roof joints, a common weak point
- Any damp patches appearing on ceilings — often the first sign of a developing roof leak
4. General exterior checks
- Secure or store garden furniture, trampolines, and anything that could become airborne
- Check fascias, soffits, and cladding for loose sections
- Clear drains and gullies so surface water has somewhere to go
Don't wait until the damage is done
Storm damage escalates fast — a loose tile today is a ceiling leak next week, and a leaning fence panel today is a collapsed boundary after the next named storm comes through. If you've spotted an issue during your check, it's far cheaper to get it looked at now than to deal with emergency repairs mid-storm.
Find a trusted local tradesperson on CompareMyBuilder — search verified fencing specialists, tree surgeons, and roofers in your area, compare at a flat rate with no lead fees, and get your property storm-ready before the next warning is issued.