News

Welcome to PCLA News, your comprehensive resource for expert advice, industry insights, and practical tips on managing property damage claims, loss assessment, and leak detection services in Northern Ireland.

At PCLA, we pride ourselves on providing top-tier support to both commercial and residential property owners, ensuring peace of mind in times of crisis.

Whether you’re discovering the complexities of an insurance claim, safeguarding your property against potential leaks, or seeking professional guidance on minimising damage, our expertly curated articles are here to help.

With PCLA, you’re not just getting a service; you’re partnering with a team dedicated to protecting your property and restoring your peace of mind.

Explore our extensive archive to find valuable information on everything from the latest in leak detection technology and effective claim management strategies to success stories and case studies.

Latest News

5 Things Your Insurer Won’t Tell You (But a Loss Assessor Will)

5 Things Your Insurer Won’t Tell You (But a Loss Assessor Will)

When disaster hits, the last thing you want is to get lost in confusing insurance terms and policy exclusions. Many homeowners face this challenge, often unaware of obstacles that can weaken their claims. Issues like unreported risks and the hidden effects of property modifications can all add to the complexity. Continue reading to learn about the five important things your insurer won’t tell you and why hiring a loss assessor might be the smartest move for your home.

What Was the Most Frustrating Part of Your Home Insurance Claim?

What Was the Most Frustrating Part of Your Home Insurance Claim?

For many homeowners, the stress of a home insurance claim doesn’t come from the damage – it comes from the insurer. This blog explores the five most common frustrations people face, from delays to disputes, and includes a real example from Omagh where PCLA helped a homeowner turn things around.

Is It Worth Hiring a Loss Assessor for a Small Claim?

Is It Worth Hiring a Loss Assessor for a Small Claim?

Think your home insurance claim is too small to worry about? Many Northern Ireland homeowners only realise the true cost once repairs are underway – and by then, it’s often too late to go back. This post explains why even a minor leak deserves expert attention, and how PCLA helped one Bangor couple boost their claim from £12k to over £18k.

Popular Topics

Property Damage Insurance Claims

This is our dedicated hub for all things related to property damage insurance claims. If you’re discovering the challenges of a home insurance claim or seeking professional advice on maximising your claim, you’ve come to the right place.

Dining Room water damage insurance claim

Dining Room Water Damage: How Nearby Plumbing Leaks Can Ruin Your Space

Water damage is a silent intruder that can devastate a home before its full impact is realised. A single plumbing leak can lead to structural damage, ruined finishes, and complex insurance issues, particularly in open-plan homes. At PCLA, we’ve witnessed the far-reaching effects of such damage. Take, for example, a case from Ardboe in May 2024, where a seemingly minor leak spiralled into disaster, affecting the dining room and hallway. Discover how leaks in one room can wreak havoc in another and learn how to protect your home from similar fates.

The Hidden Threat Beneath Your Kitchen

Kitchen Nightmare: How a Hidden Pipe Leak Led to Major Water Damage

When a Dungiven homeowner discovered their kitchen floor feeling slightly spongy, they had no idea it was just the tip of the iceberg. Through this real-life case study, PCLA reveals how a hidden pipe leak silently caused extensive damage, and shares crucial insights about detecting early warning signs, documenting damage, and successfully navigating the insurance claims process.

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Leak Insurance and Water Damage Claims

This is our collection of articles about Leak Insurance and Water Damage Claims, your free resource for understanding the complexities of insurance claims related to water damage in Northern Ireland.

Dining Room water damage insurance claim

Dining Room Water Damage: How Nearby Plumbing Leaks Can Ruin Your Space

Water damage is a silent intruder that can devastate a home before its full impact is realised. A single plumbing leak can lead to structural damage, ruined finishes, and complex insurance issues, particularly in open-plan homes. At PCLA, we’ve witnessed the far-reaching effects of such damage. Take, for example, a case from Ardboe in May 2024, where a seemingly minor leak spiralled into disaster, affecting the dining room and hallway. Discover how leaks in one room can wreak havoc in another and learn how to protect your home from similar fates.

The Hidden Threat Beneath Your Kitchen

Kitchen Nightmare: How a Hidden Pipe Leak Led to Major Water Damage

When a Dungiven homeowner discovered their kitchen floor feeling slightly spongy, they had no idea it was just the tip of the iceberg. Through this real-life case study, PCLA reveals how a hidden pipe leak silently caused extensive damage, and shares crucial insights about detecting early warning signs, documenting damage, and successfully navigating the insurance claims process.

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Leak Prevention and Maintenance

This is our collection of articles about Leak Prevention and Maintenance, your go-to resource for proactive solutions to keep your property in Northern Ireland safe and leak-free.

How Much Does It Cost to Have a Leak Detected?

How Much Does It Cost to Have a Leak Detected?

Water leaks, if ignored, can lead to expensive repairs. But what will it cost to have a leak detected professionally? This blog post examines the expenses of top methods like acoustic listening, thermal imaging, and tracer gas. We also discuss how these costs compare to potential property damage and explore how UK home insurance may help cover expenses. Get the insights you need to protect your home efficiently.

What Do Leak Detection Companies Do? and are they worth it?

Are Leak Detection Companies Worth It?

Leaks in your home can cause serious damage before you’re even aware of them. Leak detection companies offer professional services using advanced technologies like acoustic listening, thermal imaging, and tracer gas to find leaks without invasive methods. This post explores the benefits of hiring these experts compared to DIY solutions and local plumbers. Discover if investing in a leak detection company is the right choice for your property.

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Structural Drying and Water Damage

This is our collection of articles about Structural Drying and Water Damage, your guide for tackling the aftermath of leaks and floods in Northern Ireland.

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Leak Detection Technologies and Techniques

This is our collection of articles about Leak Detection Technologies and Techniques – your guide to the cutting-edge tools and methods that are revolutionising leak detection in Northern Ireland.

Leak Detection Costs in Northern Ireland

How Much Does Leak Detection Cost in Northern Ireland

Discover the cost of leak detection services in Northern Ireland with our detailed pricing guide. Understand the factors that influence costs and learn how to choose the right service for your needs. Make informed decisions to protect your property from costly water damage today.

Leak Detection: How Accurate Are Modern Methods?

How Accurate Is Leak Detection?

Water leaks can cause serious damage if not detected early. Fortunately, modern methods like acoustic listening, thermal imaging, and tracer gas offer accurate solutions. In this blog, we examine how reliable these techniques are, and discuss their role in home insurance policies in the UK, including trace and access cover. Discover which methods provide the best protection for your property.

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The Health Risks and Consequences of Water Leaks

This is our collection of articles about the Health Risks and Consequences of Water Leaks, your vital resource for understanding the hidden dangers that water leaks can pose to your health and well-being in Northern Ireland.

Could Hidden Water Damage Be Causing Mould Growth in Your Home?

Could Hidden Water Damage Be Causing Mould Growth in Your Home?

Mould growth is a stealthy intruder in many homes, often fuelled by unnoticed water leaks and poor ventilation. This silent menace not only jeopardises health but also undermines structural integrity. Learn its causes, effects, and the pivotal role of home insurance in addressing the ensuing damage.

How Damp Can Threaten Your Home and Your Health

The Health Risks of Damp Walls and How to Address Them

Damp walls are not just unsightly; they can also pose serious health risks to you and your family. In this post, we’ll discuss the potential health effects of dampness in your home and provide practical solutions to address and prevent these issues effectively.

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Commercial Leaks

This is our collection of articles about Commercial Leaks, a resource for safeguarding business properties in Northern Ireland from the costly and disruptive effects of water leaks.

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Boiler and Central Heating Systems

This is our collection of articles about Boiler and Central Heating Systems, tailored for residents and businesses in Northern Ireland.

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Causes and Signs of Water Leaks

This is our collection of articles about the Causes and Signs of Water Leaks. These are your guide to understanding and identifying the underlying issues that can lead to water damage in Northern Ireland.

The Hidden Threat Beneath Your Kitchen

Kitchen Nightmare: How a Hidden Pipe Leak Led to Major Water Damage

When a Dungiven homeowner discovered their kitchen floor feeling slightly spongy, they had no idea it was just the tip of the iceberg. Through this real-life case study, PCLA reveals how a hidden pipe leak silently caused extensive damage, and shares crucial insights about detecting early warning signs, documenting damage, and successfully navigating the insurance claims process.

How Water Damage Impacts Insulated Floor Slabs

How Water Damage Impacts Insulated Floor Slabs: Prevention and Solutions

Water damage within insulated floor slabs is a hidden hazard in modern homes, threatening both structural integrity and health. This article examines the construction and regulations of these slabs, and highlights the impact of moisture intrusion. Discover how to identify and remediate this often-overlooked issue effectively.

Could Hidden Water Damage Be Causing Mould Growth in Your Home?

Could Hidden Water Damage Be Causing Mould Growth in Your Home?

Mould growth is a stealthy intruder in many homes, often fuelled by unnoticed water leaks and poor ventilation. This silent menace not only jeopardises health but also undermines structural integrity. Learn its causes, effects, and the pivotal role of home insurance in addressing the ensuing damage.

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Water Leak Detection and Repair

This is our collection of articles for all things Water Leak Detection and Repair in Northern Ireland. Here, you’ll find a curated collection of blog posts, each designed to equip you with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to tackle water leaks head-on.

The Hidden Threat Beneath Your Kitchen

Kitchen Nightmare: How a Hidden Pipe Leak Led to Major Water Damage

When a Dungiven homeowner discovered their kitchen floor feeling slightly spongy, they had no idea it was just the tip of the iceberg. Through this real-life case study, PCLA reveals how a hidden pipe leak silently caused extensive damage, and shares crucial insights about detecting early warning signs, documenting damage, and successfully navigating the insurance claims process.

Protect Your Home From Winter Pipe Bursts

Winter Pipe Bursts on the Rise: How Northern Ireland Homeowners Can Protect Their Homes—and Their Wallets—From Costly Water Damage

As Northern Ireland faces freezing temperatures, homeowners are increasingly concerned about the risk of burst pipes and devastating water damage. From prevention strategies to insurance claim expertise, discover how to protect your home and finances this winter. Our comprehensive guide helps you safeguard your property against frozen pipes and ensures you’re prepared if the worst happens.

Leak Detection: How Accurate Are Modern Methods?

How Accurate Is Leak Detection?

Water leaks can cause serious damage if not detected early. Fortunately, modern methods like acoustic listening, thermal imaging, and tracer gas offer accurate solutions. In this blog, we examine how reliable these techniques are, and discuss their role in home insurance policies in the UK, including trace and access cover. Discover which methods provide the best protection for your property.

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