Executive Summary
Hurricane Melissa has highlighted the growing intensity of Atlantic storms, with experts linking these events to climate change. In the UK, the Met Office warns of increasing risks from high winds and extreme weather. Installing storm shutters — including modern insulated metal panels (IMPs) and roller shutters that double as anti-burglary and energy-saving devices — together with roof hurricane ties, offers one of the most cost-effective means to protect people, property, and small businesses.
We recommend a national and local scheme of low-cost loans and means-tested grants, using proven models from the US, Australia, and New Zealand, to make these upgrades affordable and widespread.
1) Why Now — Evidence & Urgency
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Recent Event: Hurricane Melissa (Oct 2025) caused devastating damage across the Caribbean, underscoring how climate change is driving stronger storms.
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UK Outlook: The Met Office warns of increasing storm intensity, coastal wind events, and rainfall extremes across the UK. These will threaten homes, businesses, and supply chains.
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Cost–Benefit Evidence: Studies from the US and Australia show that retrofitted shutters and roof tie-downs significantly reduce storm damage. These measures pay for themselves in avoided losses within a few years, and can also lower insurance premiums.
2) What to Promote — Simple, Proven, Affordable Resilience
A. Dual-Purpose Storm Shutters
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Insulated Metal Panels (IMPs)
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IMPs are strong, pre-fabricated panels with a steel or aluminium exterior and rigid foam insulation core.
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When installed as external storm shutters or fixed panels, they provide exceptional impact resistance, thermal insulation, and enhanced building security.
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They offer dual benefits: storm protection, energy efficiency, and anti-burglary resistance.
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IMPs can be manufactured in the UK, stimulating local fabrication and construction supply chains.
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Roller or Security Shutters
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Tested for debris impact and high-wind resistance, roller shutters remain the most widespread solution for windows and doors.
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They double as security shutters, preventing break-ins and reducing insurance claims.
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Combining roller shutters on openings with fixed or hinged IMP panels on larger glazed areas or vulnerable façades gives a comprehensive protection package.
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B. Roof-to-Wall Connectors / Hurricane Ties
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Simple metal connectors that fasten roof trusses to wall plates to prevent uplift in high winds.
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Very low material cost, simple installation, and proven effectiveness in hurricane and storm zones worldwide.
C. Package Design
A “Home and Business Storm Protection Kit” could combine:
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IMPs or roller shutters for windows/doors
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Roof hurricane ties
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Optional storm-door reinforcement kits
This offers layered protection with minimal structural disruption.
3) International Models
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Queensland, Australia — Household Resilience Program:
Offers grants covering up to 80% of costs for cyclone shutters and roof tie-downs. IMP-style insulated shutters are an eligible material due to their dual energy and cyclone performance. -
United States — FEMA & State Programs:
Programs such as My Safe Florida Home fund storm shutters (including impact-resistant metal panels and roll-down systems) and roof anchoring. -
New Zealand — Regional Resilience Funds:
Provides targeted support for home-hardening and hazard mitigation using similar, low-cost retrofit models.
4) Proposed UK Scheme
A. Funding Model
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Means-Tested Grants: Cover up to 75% of retrofit costs (up to £8,000 per property).
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Low-Interest Loans: 0–2% APR for remaining costs, repayable over 3–7 years.
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Full Funding for Critical Infrastructure: Small care homes, GP surgeries, community hubs, and SMEs vital to local economies.
B. Procurement and Local Jobs
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Councils and combined authorities to bulk-procure IMPs and shutters for cost savings.
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Partner with UK steel and panel manufacturers to promote domestic production of insulated storm shutters.
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Train local installers and small contractors to carry out installations safely and consistently.
C. Regulation & Insurance
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Engage insurers to offer premium reductions for properties with certified shutters or roof-tie upgrades.
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Consider temporary council tax rebates for early adopters.
5) Estimated Costs
| Measure | Typical Cost (per property) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Roller or security shutters | £2,500–£6,000 | Depending on number/size of windows |
| IMP storm shutters (fixed/hinged) | £3,000–£8,000 | Higher strength & insulation; longer lifespan |
| Roof hurricane ties | £300–£1,000 | Depends on roof structure |
| Total (combined) | £3,500–£9,000 | Average for semi-detached or small business unit |
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