In Northern Ireland, storms are an inevitable part of life. The dramatic winds, rain, and occasional hailstorms can leave a trail of damage to properties and a sense of helplessness in their wake. When a storm passes, the immediate aftermath can be overwhelming, especially for homeowners facing damage and the daunting task of insurance claims.
To help guide homeowners through this challenging time, we’ve crafted a checklist of proactive steps that will streamline the claims process and ensure a smooth path to recovery. This guide draws on our experience at Property Claims Loss Assessors (PCLA), a Belfast-based firm dedicated to supporting homeowners through insurance claims.
With expertise in managing claims related to storm damage, we aim to maximise claim outcomes for our clients and provide essential insights into navigating post-storm procedures.
Understanding the Importance of Immediate Action
When storm damage occurs, swift action is key. The hours following the storm are critical for documenting damage, securing temporary repairs, and notifying your insurer. Taking the right steps early on can reduce stress, avoid delays, and minimise further damage to your property. However, knowing what steps to prioritise can be challenging, especially in the chaotic aftermath of a severe storm.
At PCLA, we specialise in helping homeowners and property owners throughout Northern Ireland secure the insurance coverage they’re entitled to. We know that being well-prepared and following a structured checklist can make a world of difference in protecting your property and claim.
Step 1: Secure Temporary Repairs to Prevent Further Damage
The first step after a storm passes is to prioritise making temporary repairs to prevent further issues, such as leaks or structural instability. While this step may seem overwhelming, these repairs are often crucial for protecting your home and the success of your claim.
Board Up Broken Windows and Cover Roof Holes
For instance, if the storm has shattered windows or damaged the roof, use boards, tarps, or any materials available to cover these areas. Not only does this prevent additional water damage, but it also demonstrates to your insurer that you’ve taken reasonable steps to mitigate further loss.
Keep All Receipts for Temporary Repairs
If you incur costs while securing your property, keep all receipts. These expenses may be recoverable as part of your claim, as insurers generally appreciate proactive steps taken to protect the property. However, homeowners should confirm with their insurers what types of temporary repair costs are recoverable to manage expectations.
However, avoid making permanent repairs at this stage. Making permanent repairs without insurer approval may result in a denied claim for those repairs, emphasising the importance of waiting for assessment. Your insurer will likely need to assess the damage as it was directly after the storm before approving more extensive work.
Step 2: Assessing and Documenting the Damage
After completing temporary repairs, conduct a thorough assessment of your property’s condition. Whether the damage is visible to the naked eye or more hidden, documenting everything meticulously is essential.
Photograph Everything
Documenting the damage with clear, high-resolution photos is crucial. Focus on capturing:
- Exterior Damage: Broken windows, roof damage, fallen trees, and structural issues.
- Interior Damage: Signs of water damage, cracks, and structural issues affecting walls, floors, and ceilings.
Photographs serve as visual proof of the storm’s impact, making it more challenging for insurers to dispute your claim. In cases we’ve handled, photos taken immediately after the storm played a vital role in establishing the extent of the damage, helping us secure fair settlements for our clients.
Record the Date and Time
Be sure to note the exact date and time the storm occurred and when you first observed the damage. Accurate records make it easier to connect the damage directly to the storm, strengthening your position if an insurer challenges your claim. Insurers often check weather records to confirm that a storm was present in the area at the reported time, making it even more important to provide precise information.
Step 3: Contact Your Insurer Promptly
Once immediate actions are complete, it’s essential to notify your insurer as soon as possible. Early notification initiates the claims process and ensures your claim is recorded in a timely manner.
Know What Information to Provide
When you call your insurer, be prepared to share specific details, including:
- Your policy number.
- A description of the damage.
- Any immediate actions you’ve taken, such as temporary repairs.
This early communication demonstrates your proactive approach and commitment to addressing the damage responsibly. In many cases, prompt reporting has allowed our team at PCLA to step in early and advocate on behalf of our clients, ensuring their claims are fairly assessed.
Avoid Speculation
It’s important to avoid making assumptions about the cause of the damage or any repairs needed. Simply state the facts and let your insurer conduct their assessment. At PCLA, we often handle cases where initial assumptions led to complications, so we recommend leaving interpretation to the professionals.
Step 4: Seek Professional Assessment from a Loss Assessor
Navigating an insurance claim, especially one involving significant storm damage, can be complex. Loss assessors, such as PCLA, represent homeowners and act as intermediaries with insurers. By hiring a loss assessor, you can ensure that the full extent of your damage is documented and presented accurately.
The Role of a Loss Assessor
Our team at PCLA brings over 30 years of experience in handling insurance claims. We conduct thorough assessments, manage communications with insurers, and negotiate fair settlements for our clients. For example, during Storm Isha in January 2024, we represented clients across Northern Ireland who experienced roof and structural damage, ensuring they received their full entitlements under the terms of their policies. We provided detailed assessments and managed all communications with insurers to ensure the necessary repairs were covered.
Overcoming Insurance Challenges with PCLA
Over the years, PCLA has supported numerous homeowners in overcoming hurdles related to storm damage claims. These case studies highlight the critical role of professional representation in achieving positive outcomes.
Storm Isha, January 2024
In January 2024, Storm Isha swept through Northern Ireland, leaving widespread damage in its path. One of our clients in Lurgan experienced extensive property damage when a tree fell, causing significant structural issues. The insurer initially refused to cover the claim, arguing that the tree’s height and lack of maintenance disqualified it from coverage. However, through our intervention, we secured coverage for the repair costs, including asbestos removal from the damaged roof slates – a high-cost task the client could not have covered otherwise.
Storm Eunice, February 2022
In February 2022, Storm Eunice caused extensive damage across Northern Ireland. One of our clients in Antrim faced severe damage when their chimney stack collapsed, crashing through the roof. Initially, the insurer argued that the chimney had not been adequately maintained, suggesting this maintenance failure as grounds to deny the claim. After extensive negotiations, PCLA successfully overturned this decision, ensuring the insurer covered the repair costs in full. The client’s home was restored without incurring out-of-pocket expenses – a relief amid the stressful post-storm period.
Step 5: Review Your Policy for Coverage Details
Insurance policies can be complex, with varied terms depending on the insurer and specific policy type. It’s essential to review your policy thoroughly to understand what is and isn’t covered in cases of storm damage.
Key Areas to Review
- Deductibles: Check your policy’s deductible for storm damage claims.
- Coverage Limits: Some policies have limits on specific types of damage, such as flood or wind damage.
- Excluded Damages: Be aware of any exclusions that may impact your claim.
Understanding these details can prevent surprises during the claims process. At PCLA, we help clients interpret their policies to ensure they’re fully aware of their coverage, which strengthens their position during negotiations with insurers.
Step 6: Be Prepared for Insurer Assessments
After making your claim, insurers typically send an adjuster to evaluate the damage. This assessment determines the final payout, making it a critical point in the claims process. However, it’s essential to be mindful of potential biases, as the adjuster’s priority is to minimise costs for the insurer.
Tips for a Fair Assessment
- Provide Documentation: Share all photos, receipts, and records you’ve collected.
- Highlight Temporary Repairs: Explain any temporary fixes made to prevent further damage.
- Request a Copy of the Report: Having a copy of the adjuster’s report provides transparency and a reference point for any follow-up discussions.
Having a professional loss assessor like PCLA present during the inspection can be invaluable. We advocate for our clients, ensuring their damages are accurately documented and pushing for a fair settlement that aligns with the policy’s terms.
Securing a Fair and Timely Outcome
Storm damage can be a daunting experience, but with the right approach and support, navigating an insurance claim doesn’t have to be. Taking prompt, strategic action after a storm maximises the likelihood of a smooth claims process, providing peace of mind during a challenging time.
At PCLA, we’re here to support Northern Ireland’s homeowners with comprehensive, compassionate claims assistance. With our guidance, homeowners can feel confident in achieving a fair outcome and restoring their homes without bearing unnecessary financial burdens.
By following these steps, homeowners can proactively protect their properties and avoid common pitfalls that can arise during the claims process. It is also important to document each step thoroughly, as doing so will strengthen your position during negotiations. For further guidance on storm-related insurance claims, consider consulting with a professional loss assessor, who can provide expert advice tailored to your specific situation and ensure your rights are fully upheld.
Further thoughts
If you’re a homeowner in Northern Ireland dealing with the aftermath of a storm, consider reaching out to PCLA. Our team of experienced loss assessors is here to provide the expertise and support you need to secure a fair insurance settlement. Contact us today to learn how we can help you navigate your storm-related insurance claim, ensuring you receive the coverage you deserve.
