Worst spring in 50 years for storm-hit homeowners

Nearly 11,000 detached homes and holiday homes were damaged by storms in Sweden this spring, marking the highest number recorded for the period since measurements began in 1975. LF Fastighetsförmedling counted 10,732 storm-related claims during the second quarter, covering March through May.

The damage included roof tiles and sheets torn away, large trees falling onto houses, and garden furniture blown into windows. The main cause was storm Dave, which struck particularly hard along the west coast during the Easter weekend.

Severe storms have more commonly arrived in winter. Dave’s spring impact is therefore another reminder of the risks associated with extreme weather. “Naturskadorna skiljer sig från år till år, men över tid ser vi en ökande trend på försäkringsbeloppen. Det tenderar alltså att bli större och fler skador,” said Per Sangrud of LF Fastighetsförmedling. In English, he said natural-disaster damage varies from year to year, but insurance costs show a rising trend over time, with damage tending to become more extensive and more frequent.

“

Take into account that the climate will affect your property over time.

Sangrud urged homeowners to check what their home insurance covers and inspect their properties. They should ensure that roof edges are secure, assess whether large trees could fall on buildings, and fasten trampolines so they cannot blow away. He also advised residents to contact county administrative boards and municipalities about climate risks in their areas.

The LF figures cover detached homes and holiday homes. When business and agricultural insurance are included, the industry organisation Svensk Försäkring puts the number of reported storm claims for the quarter at 17,000. The data covers storm damage only, excluding damage from water, lightning, forest fires and other natural causes.

“

Natural-disaster damage varies from year to year, but over time we see an increasing trend in insurance costs. It tends to mean greater and more frequent damage.