A Practical Guide to Water Damage Insurance Claims for Homeowners & Businesses in Limerick & Clare
Experiencing water damage can be stressful and disruptive. Whether it’s caused by burst pipes, heavy rain, blocked drains or leaks from neighbouring properties, acting fast and correctly can significantly improve your insurance outcome.
This guide outlines the first steps you should take before contacting your insurer, and what to expect during the claims process. It’s tailored for people in Limerick & Clare, Ireland, but many principles apply elsewhere.
1. Ensure Safety First
Before anything else:
- Turn off electricity in affected areas if safe to do so.
- Shut off water supply if the source of the leak is internal.
- Avoid entering rooms with significant standing water.
- Take precautions to prevent slips and falls.
Your safety comes before any insurance claim.
2. Stop the Source of Water
If you can safely stop more water entering your property:
- Turn off stopcock or main water valve.
- Contain ongoing leaks with buckets and towels.
- Consider temporary fixes (e.g. sandbags or tarpaulin) during heavy rain.
These steps help reduce further damage and demonstrate to insurers that you acted responsibly.
3. Document Everything
Good evidence is vital for insurance claims.
What to record:
- Photos and videos of all damage (walls, floors, ceilings, furniture).
- The exact date/time you discovered the issue.
- Weather conditions if relevant.
- Any receipts/invoices for emergency repairs or temporary accommodation.
Keep records in a safe folder (digital and physical).
4. Review Your Insurance Policy
Before calling your insurer, check your policy for:
- Coverage limits
- Excess amounts
- Specific requirements for water damage claims
Knowing your cover helps you understand what to expect and ask when you speak to the insurer.
5. Contact Your Insurer Promptly
Report the claim as soon as possible. When you call:
- Be clear and factual.
- Provide photos and a detailed description.
- Ask about next steps and documentation they require.
Many insurers have dedicated phone lines and online claim portals.
6. Prevent Further Damage
Insurers generally expect you to take reasonable action to limit damage:
- Remove standing water with mops, buckets or a wet/dry vacuum.
- Move undamaged belongings to dry areas.
- Ventilate the area to reduce mould risk.
Note: Do not dispose of damaged materials until you’ve been told to do so—insurers may want to inspect them.
7. Keep Costs Reasonable
If you need emergency repairs (e.g., boarding up windows, temporary roof repair), keep:
- Receipts
- A record of who carried out the work
Avoid major repairs until your insurer has inspected, unless necessary to prevent further damage.
8. Prepare for the Insurer’s Assessment
An assessor may:
- Visit your property
- Review your evidence
- Ask questions about when and how the damage occurred
Be organised and cooperative—it speeds up the process.
9. Settlement & Repairs
Once liability is agreed:
- The insurer will either pay you or arrange repair work.
- Check whether the insurance company has preferred suppliers or whether you can choose your own.
Ensure you understand how and when you’ll be reimbursed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What counts as “water damage” under my policy?
A: Water damage typically refers to damage caused by sudden and accidental water escape—such as burst pipes, leaks, or rainfall entering property. Policies vary, so always check your specific terms.
Q: Does household insurance cover flooding from heavy rain?
A: Many standard home policies include sudden water ingress cover, but surface flooding (from rivers or sea) may require separate flood cover. Check your policy wording.
Q: How quickly should I report water damage?
A: Report it as soon as possible—delays can lead to claim disputes or reduced settlement.
Q: What if I can’t stop the water source myself?
A: If the leak is from a mains supply or external source, contact your plumber and water supplier. Document attempts to manage the issue.
Q: Do I need to hire a professional to assess the damage?
A: It’s not always necessary, but professionals (e.g., loss adjusters) can help document complex damage. Your insurer may send an assessor.
Q: Will my premium go up if I make a claim?
A: Possibly. Insurance premiums can increase after claims, depending on insurer and claim history.
Q: What if the damage leads to mould?
A: Mould caused by unresolved water damage may not be covered. Reporting and treating water damage promptly helps prevent mould and supports your claim.
Q: Can I claim for loss of use or temporary accommodation?
A: Many policies include cover for alternative accommodation or loss of use while repairs are completed. Check your policy or ask your insurer.
Q: How long does a water damage claim take?
A: Times vary. Simple claims can be resolved in days; complex claims (e.g., structural damage) can take weeks, depending on assessment and repairs.
Q: What paperwork will I need?
A:
- Photos/videos
- Insurance policy details
- Repair and receipt documentation
- Correspondence with contractors and insurers
If you’re dealing with a water damage claim and need help understanding your insurance cover or next steps, HKP.ie can guide you through the process in Limerick & Clare from start to finish.
