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Quick Answer
The storm damage garden checklist: check for fallen trees and branches, check fences and structures, check the roof and gutters, check paths and patios, check plants for damage, and document everything for insurance. In the Chilterns, where winter storms are common, this checklist helps you assess damage quickly and prioritise repairs.
Why Storm Damage Checklists Matter
Storms can cause significant damage to gardens. Fallen trees, broken fences, damaged patios, and split plants are all common after a storm. The key is to assess the damage quickly, prioritise the repairs, and document everything for insurance. This guide gives a storm damage garden checklist, so you know what to check and in what order.
In the Chilterns, where winter storms (November to February) are common and many gardens have mature trees, storm damage is a regular occurrence. This checklist is based on what we see after storms across Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Berkshire and Bedfordshire.
The 8-Point Storm Damage Checklist
1. Check for Fallen Trees and Branches
Walk the garden and check for:
- Fallen trees
- Broken branches (hanging or on the ground)
- Leaning trees
- Split trunks
If a tree has fallen on a path, building, or power line, call a tree surgeon immediately. Do not try to remove it yourself.
2. Check Fences and Structures
Check for:
- Fallen fence panels
- Broken fence posts
- Leaning gates
- Damaged sheds and outbuildings
- Broken trellis and arches
See our fencing service for repairs.
3. Check the Roof and Gutters
Check for:
- Missing or loose tiles
- Blocked gutters (leaves and debris)
- Loose aerials and chimneys
- Damage to fascias and soffits
4. Check Paths and Patios
Check for:
- Loose paving slabs
- Cracked patios
- Sunken areas
- Blocked drains
5. Check Plants for Damage
Check for:
- Broken stems on shrubs and perennials
- Split shrubs
- Leaning plants
- Wind-rocked plants (lifted roots)
- Frost damage (blackened leaves)
Prune damaged growth to prevent disease.
6. Check Ponds and Water Features
Check for:
- Debris in the pond
- Blocked pumps
- Damaged liners
- Flooded ponds
7. Check Garden Furniture
Check for:
- Blown-over furniture
- Broken tables and chairs
- Damaged parasols
- Displaced pots and containers
8. Document Everything for Insurance
If you plan to claim on insurance:
- Take photos of all damage
- Note the date and time of the storm
- Keep receipts for emergency repairs
- Contact your insurer before starting major repairs
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The Priority Order for Repairs
- Safety: fallen trees on paths, buildings, or power lines
- Weatherproofing: damaged roofs, gutters, and windows
- Security: broken fences and gates
- Plant care: prune damaged plants, stake leaning plants
- Structural: damaged paths, patios, and outbuildings
- Cosmetic: minor damage that does not affect safety or function
The Cost of Storm Damage Repairs
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Tree removal (small tree) | 200-500 pounds |
| Tree removal (large tree) | 500-2,000 pounds |
| Fence repair (per panel) | 50-100 pounds |
| Fence replacement (10m) | 500-1,500 pounds |
| Shed repair | 100-500 pounds |
| Patio repair | 200-1,000 pounds |
| Plant replacement | 50-300 pounds |
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Common Mistakes
- Not checking for hanging branches. Hanging branches can fall and injure people. Remove them immediately.
- Trying to remove large trees yourself. Large tree removal is dangerous. Hire a qualified tree surgeon.
- Not documenting damage for insurance. Take photos before starting repairs.
- Not pruning damaged plants. Damaged plants are vulnerable to disease. Prune them promptly.
- Not checking ponds and water features. Debris in ponds can kill fish and wildlife. Clean them out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will my insurance cover storm damage to the garden?
Usually yes, but check your policy. Most policies cover fences, sheds, and outbuildings, but may not cover plants.
Should I try to remove a fallen tree myself?
No, if it is large or has fallen on a building, path, or power line. Hire a qualified tree surgeon. Small trees (under 5cm trunk diameter) can be removed yourself.
How do I prevent storm damage in the future?
Prune trees regularly, replace loose fence posts, secure garden furniture, and check gutters before winter.
Get Help with Storm Damage
If your garden in Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Berkshire or Bedfordshire has been damaged by a storm, send us a WhatsApp with photos and we will aim to respond within 12 to 36 hours, Monday to Sunday.
Further Reading
In mature gardens, timing is critical. Established plants respond differently to seasonal work than young plants. Watch the weather forecast and adjust plans accordingly.
Put this advice into practice
Use the relevant CGM tool or follow a related guide, then send us a few photos if you would like a tailored plan.
Sources and citations
This article draws on the following sources. Specific claims are cited inline where relevant.
- CGM field records (2025-02. Site observations from gardens across Oxfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Berkshire and Bedfordshire.
- Royal Horticultural Society (2024). RHS Gardening Advice and Plant Finder. Available at rhs.org.uk.
- Met Office (2024). Regional climate averages, South East England. Available at metoffice.gov.uk.
- British Geological Survey (2024). Soil parent material data for the Chilterns and Thames Valley. Available at bgs.ac.uk.