Hail, Windstorms and Snow: How to Insure Your Enclosure and Avoid Problems with a Claim

Hail

• Hail is generally included even in basic natural-hazard insurance packages.
• The policy covers punctured or cracked glass and polycarbonate panels, as well as dents or damage to the coating on the aluminium structure.

Windstorms and severe gales

• Essential condition for a successful claim: The enclosure must be fully closed and securely locked during a storm. If the structure is left unlocked or partially open and the wind damages it, the insurer is likely to reduce the payment substantially or reject it completely because the operating instructions were not followed.

Weight of snow and ice

• This risk may not be included in basic cover and often appears only in extended insurance options. It covers situations where the weight of snow or ice deforms the profiles or breaks through a panel.
• Essential condition for a successful claim: Even with the best policy, you have a duty to prevent or limit damage. Excessive layers of heavy snow must be removed regularly and carefully. If half a metre of wet snow is left on the structure without intervention, the insurance payment may be refused.

Practical tip

• Photograph first, clear up afterwards: If the worst happens, photograph everything in detail, including evidence that the locks were properly secured. Take the photographs before removing branches or broken glass.

A correctly arranged insurance policy, combined with compliance with the operating instructions, protects you from unexpected expenses. The technical parameters of your model, which the insurer may require when updating the policy, can be found in the supplied user documentation. You should also read our guidance on winter operation and extreme weather. If you have any questions about operating your enclosure safely, write to us or give us a call.