After an exceptionally hot and dry summer, many farms across the UK are seeing their harvest period draw to a close.
As combines head back into the shed, now is a good time to review your farm’s insurance arrangements and make sure that your cover reflects the seasonal risks facing your business.
How has the weather impacted this year’s harvest?
This year has proved particularly challenging for many farmers across the UK. High temperatures and prolonged droughts have affected crop yields, reduced grass growth and placed additional pressure on grazing systems, meaning that many livestock farmers have had to rely more on supplementary feed.[1]
Research suggests that the harvest of 2026 might be the worst on record.[2] As autumn arrives, creating a recovery plan can help farms bounce back after the season’s challenges and manage feed supplies through the colder months.[3]
The effects of this year’s weather haven’t been limited to crops and livestock[4] but have also increased the risk of fire. Dry crops, dust build-up, high operating temperatures and warm weather can be a dangerous mix, allowing fires to start and spread much more quickly.
Could your farm be underinsured?
Farm insurance isn’t something that should be put in place and then left to gather dust until renewal. Over the last couple of years, the cost of construction on farm buildings and replacing machinery has increased significantly.[5]
As a result, sums insured that were once suitable when the policy was initially arranged might not reflect the real cost of getting things sorted after a loss.
It’s perhaps no surprise that underinsurance is becoming a growing concern across the farming sector. One study revealed that one in 10 farmers who tried to make a property claim found that they were underinsured, leaving them to make up the shortfall from their own pockets.
Carrying out a review of your insurance regularly can help minimise the risk of this happening to your farm. During this review, check that the limits on any buildings and machinery are up to date, and don’t forget the rising costs of replacements. Remember to include any new purchases or any improvements that you’ve carried out during the year so that your policy reflects the true value of your assets.
Don’t overlook machinery theft
The rising cost of machinery means that theft has continued to be a risk for farming businesses.[6]
As machinery and equipment is moved into storage following harvest, take time to review security measures like tracking devices, immobilisers, CCTV and locks. Not only can this help reduce the risk, but it may also be a condition of your insurance.[7]
Once your harvest concludes, it’s worth taking some time to make sure your machinery cover is adequate.
Review your business interruption cover
On that note, if you do find yourself falling victim to theft or another major incident like a fire, having business interruption insurance can help cover some of the lost income and any costs incurred while trying to get the farm back up and running.
While it’s easy to focus on making sure your physical assets are protected, it’s equally important to check that your business interruption cover is still appropriate for your operation.
At The Insurance Centre, we can help ensure that your insurance policy covers you sufficiently for the work your farm does. To review your existing insurance, or to source a new policy which better suits your needs, get in touch on 01524 848506.
[1] Recovering grassland and setting autumn priorities | AHDB
[2] Energy & Climate Intelligence Unit | Impact of heatwaves and drought…
[3] Recovering grassland and setting autumn priorities | AHDB
[4] Could your combine pass the fire risk test? – NFUonline
[5] Farm Insurance Checklist 2026: UK Start-of-Year Review
[6] Rising machinery costs squeeze UK farm profits | The Scottish Farmer
[7] Farm Insurance Checklist 2026: UK Start-of-Year Review
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