Escape of Oil Claims – Leaking Oil Boilers and Oil Tanks

Escape of oil claims occur when oil leaks from domestic or commercial heating systems causing damage to buildings, fixtures and fittings or escaping into the surrounding landscape. Typical culprits include oil fuelled central heating systems, pipes or storage tanks. Oil released into the environment from this type of leak can cause significant damage not only to buildings but also outbuildings, patios, landscaping and potentially very serious environmental damage. Your home insurance policy will normally provide cover for escape of oil claims..

Why do Escape of Oil Claims happen?

• Exposure to weather and stress over time can cause Oil tanks to fail. This can cause serious leaks to occur.
• Pipes can get damaged or deteriorate over time eventually allowing the oil to escape.
• Oil Boilers can malfunction causing leaks.

What are the Risks of Ignoring an Oil Spill?

• Environmental Pollution: Heating oil can contaminate soil and groundwater, leading to increased costs if clean-up is not done immediately.
• Health Hazards: Oil vapours in addition to the unpleasant odour may cause headaches, nausea, respiratory issues, and long-term health effects, especially in children and older adults.
• Property Damage: Oil can contaminate concrete, timber, insulation, and other materials, often requiring extensive removal and rebuilding.
• Insurance Complications: Delayed reporting or mitigation may affect your ability to claim under your home insurance policy.
• Third Party Liability: If oil migrates to adjacent properties or public land, you may be responsible for additional clean-up costs.

What to do.

• If it’s safe to do so, stop the leak by turning off the oil supply at the tank or use suitable containers to catch the oil if turning of the supply is not feasible or effective.
• Do not light any flames or smoke near the spill, as oil fumes can be flammable.
• Open windows and doors to ventilate the area.
• Materials like sand, soil, or commercial spill kits may be useful to stop the oil spreading..
• Have the leaked urgently checked by a plumber and have any work required to prevent further oil leaking urgently carried out .

Contact Professionals

• Have your Plumber inspect the leak.
• Contact your
• Insurance Company to report the incident and start the claims process.
• Engage a Loss Assessor or Property Insurance Assessor like Premium Claims Consultants to manage the insurance claim process. Premium Claims Consultants will notify insurers on your behalf. In particular Oil Remediation Claims require Property Insurance Assessors who are specialists in escape of oil claims like Premium Claims Consultants.
• Your Loss Assessor will recommend a Specialist Oil Remediation Firm to carry out the repairs. It is imperative to engage specialist oil remediation contractors to ensure that the oil is fully removed and properly disposed of.

Escape of Oil FAQs
What are common sources of oil leaks?
Common sources include oil-fuelled central heating systems, pipes, and storage tanks that can develop leaks over time.
What causes an escape of oil claim?
An escape of oil claim happens when oil leaks from heating systems, pipes, or storage tanks in homes or businesses, causing damage to property or the environment.
Does home insurance cover oil leak damage?
Yes, most home insurance policies typically cover escape of oil claims, including damage to buildings, fixtures, and fittings caused by oil leaks.
How can I get help with an oil leak claim?
You can contact Premium Claims Consultants at 061 311266 or info@premiumclaims.ie for assistance with your escape of oil claim.
What environmental damages can oil leaks cause?
Oil leaks can cause serious environmental damage by contaminating soil, water sources, and harming local ecosystems.
How can oil leaks be prevented?
Regular maintenance of heating systems, inspection of tanks and pipes, and timely repairs can help prevent oil leaks and spills.
Who can I contact for assistance with an oil spill claim?
You can contact Premium Claims Consultants at 061 311266 or info@premiumclaims.ie for help with your escape of oil claim and related damages.

Premium Claims Consultants can be contacted on 061 311266 or info@premiumclaims.ie and will be happy to assist with your escape of oil claim.