Fire Damage

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Fire damage in homes is most commonly started in kitchens. However we have come across other sources.

1. Hot Press – immersions can cause fires

2. Fuse boards can go on fire.

3 . Electrical chargers , for phones , iPads etc can start fires

4. Christmas trees when dried out can go on fire if the lights overheat.

5. Car fire can cause external damage

This isn’t a complete list. Dealing with the insurance claim that follows can be technically challenging and stressful. Why not engage Property Claims Direct Ltd. Our first survey is free.

Storm Damage

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Insurance Companies are tightening up on storm damage claims. In the past Insurance companies would pay out when recent repairs to roofs were evident. Nowadays they are absolutely insistent on either viewing the storm damage before repairs or photographs are produced demonstrating storm damage. If in doubt call Property Claims Direct 1890 711711. Our first survey is free and we act on a no win no fee basis.

Protein Fire Damage

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Last week we assessed a large protein fire. Our client had accidentally left eggs on her cooker which she forgot about while out on an errand. When she returned the house was full of smoke. The smell was rancid throughout. The issues with these types of claims are more serious than people first realize. If the kitchen has any exposed chipboard that can absorb the smoke then the kitchen may have to be replaced. All of the appliances in the kitchen are normally written off as well. Throughout the house soft furnishings, curtains , blinds  etc are all replaced. Even clothes that cannot be cleaned may be written off.

If you ever have a Protein fire it’s vital that you engage a properly qualified assessor. In Property Claims Direct we employ surveyors and engineers to ensure your damage is thoroughly and professionally assessed.

Dealing with break in claims

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Gardai are reporting a massive increase in burglaries since the advent of the economic downturn.
When thieves break into your home the personal impact can be traumatic & then you have to deal with the Gardai and your insurance company. This process can be overwhelming so here is some advice to make it easier;

1. It is often difficult to put a comprehensive list of missing items together. A checklist from a professional assessor can be be very helpful. The list must be stamped by the Gardai.

2. At PCD, we are constantly being asked do you need a receipt for every item?. The simple answer is no but the onus of proof is on you. Photographs, boxes, valuations, brochures etc can all be used as proof of loss. In PCD we number and list every item then number every corresponding proof item to make it easier for the insurance company. All of the proof items are returned.

3. Buildings damage. We’ve recently encountered situations where all the copper tanks, piping and radiators were stolen. In addition to the plumbing loss there can be a lot of water damage to the structure not all visible. In PCD our surveyors will carry out a full dampness survey. In other situations there might be a lot a scratches on walls , floors and furniture not immediately obvious to the untrained eye. Damaged doors and windows and even roof damage are all common in break ins.

4. If you have advised your insurance company that you have an alarm and have received a premium discount for it then it could be a problem if the alarm wasn’t activated when the break in occurred. Invariably all insurance companies will only cover break ins if there’s a forced entry. So when leaving your house always make sure all the widows are locked and doors deadbolted and activate your alarm.

5. Stolen cash – all policies have limits on stolen cash so if you leave excess cash around the house it may not be insured.

If you need help in processing a burglary claim, contact the professionals at PCD.