Imagine investing in a stunning, high-end outdoor kitchen—only to have it destroyed overnight by a storm. Not through any fault of your own, but because a neighbour’s tree came crashing down on it.
This was exactly the situation one of our clients faced. And it’s a powerful reminder of why having the right insurance—and the right support behind it—is absolutely essential.
A Costly Surprise
After investing in a beautifully designed, high-end outdoor kitchen, our client was ready to enjoy their new space—a space designed for entertaining, relaxing, and enjoying outdoor living at its best.
Then, a storm hit.
A tree from a neighbouring property was blown down by strong winds and landed on the kitchen, causing significant damage. The tree didn’t belong to our client, and the incident was purely a result of natural causes.
Fortunately, thanks to the guidance provided by us when setting up their cover initially, the client was properly insured and ready for the unexpected.
Not as Simple as It Sounds
Claims involving third-party elements—like a neighbour’s tree—can quickly become complex. Questions around responsibility, liability, and tense communication can delay outcomes if not handled correctly.
Our Claims Manager, Lisa, took control of the situation with a calm, proactive approach.
By staying in regular contact and working closely with the client’s personal assistant, she ensured everything progressed efficiently. Every question was answered quickly, every update clearly communicated, and every step handled with care.
This level of attention turned what could have been a frustrating process into a manageable one and gave the client confidence every step of the way.
The Outcome
Despite the complexity, the claim was successfully settled within 7 months.
The client and their team were so impressed with the seamless handling and Lisa’s expertise that they entrusted us with even more of their business—a testament to the value of doing things right.
Key Takeaways
- ✔️ Having the right insurance in place protects you when it matters most
- ✔️ Expert guidance and clear communication is crucial
- ✔️ Complex claims—even those involving third parties—can be resolved smoothly with the right support
Why This Matters More Than Ever
Storm damage is becoming increasingly common. What once felt like a rare event is now something property owners must actively prepare for.
The difference between a stressful ordeal and a smooth recovery often comes down to one thing:
Are you properly insured—and supported—before something happens?
Top Tips
- Review your cover regularly – Make sure new additions (like outdoor kitchens) are included
- Understand your policy – Know what is and isn’t covered, especially for external structures
- Don’t overlook third-party risks – Incidents involving neighbours can be complicated
- Work with experts – Professional advice can save time, money, and stress
- Act quickly after an incident – Early reporting helps keep claims moving
Wrap Up
This wasn’t just a story about storm damage—it was a reminder that the right insurance is more than protection—it’s peace of mind when you need it most.
If you’re unsure whether your current cover protects your assets, now is the time to review it. Check out the Case Study here.
👉 Get in touch today to ensure you’re fully protected—whatever the weather brings.
