Escape of Water Claims

Escape of Water Claims arise when water unexpectedly leaks from within your home, causing damage. It’s called an escape of water when dealing with your claim. This isn’t about floods from outside sources like rivers or heavy rain, but rather water escaping from your own plumbing or appliances. Here’s a breakdown:

Escape of Water Claims – Common Culprits

Leaking Pipes: Many people associate this with freezing temperatures causing pipes to crack however this is unusual in Ireland, but leaking pipes can happen for many reasons for instance failure of joints or physical damage to the pipes.
Leaking Storage Tanks: Hot and Cold-water storage tanks can often fail.
Appliances: Washing machines, dishwashers, or even water heaters can spring leaks.
Faulty Fixtures: Taps, showers, or toilets can leak.
Blocked Pipes: Waste pipes and sewer pipes often get blocked causing leaks.

Escape of Water Claims – Potential Damage

Damage to plasterboard walls and ceilings, insulation etc.
Damage to woodwork Water can seep into floors, skirtings fitted furniture etc leading to significant repair needs.
Mould and Mildew: Persistent moisture can create a breeding ground for mould, which is both unsightly and unhealthy.
Personal Belongings: Furniture, electronics, and other personal items can be damaged or destroyed.

Steps to Take

Shut Off the Water: Locate and turn off your main water valve to stop the flow.
Drain the System: Open cold taps to drain any remaining water in the pipes.
Turn Off Electricity: Avoid using electrical appliances near the leak to prevent accidents.
Emergency Repair: Engage plumbers and clean up specialists to fix the issue and mitigate damage.
Document Everything: Take photos and notes of the damage for your insurance claim.
Hire Professionals: Engage a Professional Loss Assessor like Premium Claims Consultants to assess the damage and manage the claims process to your best advantage. Premium Claims Consultants can be contacted on 061 311266 or info@premiumclaims.ie
Contact Your Insurer: Report the incident and start the claims process.

Policy Coverage

Typical policy cover for escape of water claims:

Repair Costs: Fixing the source of the leak and any resulting damage.
Property Damage: Repairing or replacing damaged ceilings, walls, floors etc.
Contents Damage: Repairs or replacement of your contents, furniture, clothing etc.
Temporary Accommodation: If your home becomes uninhabitable during repairs.

Prevention Tips

Regular Maintenance: Check and maintain your plumbing and appliances.
Insulate Pipes: Prevent freezing and bursting in cold weather.
Monitor Water Usage: Keep an eye on your water meter for unusual spikes that might indicate a leak.

Premium Claims Consultants can be contacted on 061 311266 or info@premiumclaims.ie