Dealing with Water Damage in Your Home: Steps to Take and Mistakes to Avoid by an Insurance Loss Assessor Ireland

Water Damage - Dangers to your home

Water damage in your home can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. Whether it's from a burst pipe, roof leak or natural disaster, acting swiftly is crucial to minimize the extent of the damage and prevent further complications. Irish weather can be difficult to predict. Water damage can be something that is covered in your home insurance. In this blog, we will outline the steps you should take if you find yourself facing water damage in your home, along with common mistakes to avoid during the process of making an insurance claim.


1. Ensure Safety First:

Before taking any action, prioritize your safety and that of your family. If the water damage is extensive, it may be necessary to turn off the electricity and gas supply to avoid electrical shocks or potential gas leaks. Wear protective gear such as gloves, goggles, and boots to minimize the risk of injury or exposure to contaminants.


2. Stop the Source and Assess the Damage:

Identify the source of the water and try to stop it, if possible. For instance, turn off the main water supply or patch up a leaking roof temporarily. Once the source is contained, assess the extent of the damage to determine the appropriate course of action.


3. Document the Damage:

At Property Damage Loss Assessors, we recommend you take photographs or videos of the affected areas and damaged belongings. This documentation will be useful when filing an insurance claim or seeking professional assistance. We can also come and take the most appropriate photos for your claim. 


4. Contact Your Insurance Company:

Inform your insurance company about the water damage as soon as possible. We can assist in dealing with your insurance company and help you to understand your policy coverage and what steps you need to take for the claims process. Be thorough when describing the damage and provide the necessary evidence to support your claim.


5. Remove Water and Dry the Area:

If the water accumulation is minimal, you can start removing it yourself using buckets, mops, or wet-dry vacuums. However, for extensive water damage, it is advisable to hire a professional water restoration service. They have the expertise and specialized equipment to efficiently extract water and thoroughly dry the affected area, preventing mold growth and further structural damage.


6. Salvage Valuable Items:

Prioritize the salvage of valuable and sentimental items, such as important documents, photographs, and heirlooms. Move them to a safe and dry location. Dispose of any items that are beyond repair to prevent mold or other health hazards.


7. Mitigate Mold Growth:

Even after water removal, moisture may persist, creating favourable conditions for mold growth. Promote ventilation by opening windows, using fans, and dehumidifiers. Consider employing mold prevention techniques, such as applying antimicrobial sprays or utilizing moisture-absorbing materials.


8. Assess Structural Damage:

Inspect the affected areas for signs of structural damage, including warped floors, weakened walls, or compromised ceilings. Depending on the severity, you may need to consult a professional contractor or engineer to assess and repair the structural integrity of your home.


Some Mistakes to Avoid

- Ignoring the problem: Water damage can worsen over time, leading to mold growth, structural issues, and even health hazards. Act promptly to mitigate the damage and prevent further complications.

- Neglecting safety precautions: Always prioritize safety when dealing with water damage. Switch off electrical and gas supplies if necessary and use appropriate protective gear to minimize risks.

- Attempting major repairs without professional help: While small-scale cleanup can be done by homeowners, extensive water damage requires professional expertise. Trying to tackle complex repairs yourself may exacerbate the problem or void your insurance coverage.

- Failing to document the damage: Comprehensive documentation of the water damage is vital for insurance claims. Capture photographs and videos as evidence of the extent of the damage.


Water damage can wreak havoc on your home, but by taking prompt and appropriate action, you can mitigate the effects and restore your living space. Remember to prioritize safety, contact your insurance company, and enlist professional help when needed. By following the steps outlined in this blog and avoiding common mistakes, you can navigate the challenging process of water damage restoration more effectively.


We ensure that you do not have to spend hours dealing with your water damage insurance claim. We make sure that you get to carry on your life as normal as possible under the circumstances, and we dedicate our time and expertise to get you fully back on track with limited interference.


If you need further help or information, contact James at PDLA, we are happy to have a no-obligation chat to discuss how we can help you.

Email James at info@pdla.ie

Navigating Storm Damage Claims on Your Irish Property

Mindful Merriment: Staying Aware of Household Hazards Throughout the Holidays

By Alastair roe • December 18, 2025
As we enter the height of the Christmas season, the joy of festivities brings with it a unique set of risks to our homes. At Property Damage Loss Assessors , we see a significant rise in insurance claims during December—many of which could be avoided with increased awareness and caution. To ensure your holiday remains stress-free, we have highlighted the key hazards that require your utmost attention this year. Fire Safety: Awareness in the Heart of the Home The combination of dry decorations and increased heat sources makes fire safety a primary concern. High levels of vigilance are required in the following areas: Chimney Fires: With fireplaces working overtime, ensure your chimney has been professionally swept. A buildup of soot or bird nests can lead to devastating chimney fires that spread quickly to the rest of the structure. Candles: Never leave lit candles unattended or near flammable materials like curtains or Christmas trees. Always extinguish them before leaving a room or going to bed. Christmas Lights: Check old decorative lights for frayed wires or loose connections. Avoid overloading sockets and always turn off all festive lighting when you leave the house or sleep. Cigarettes: If hosting guests, ensure that smoking materials are disposed of safely in deep ashtrays. Embers in a wastepaper bin are a common cause of late-night house fires. Security Awareness: Preventing Seasonal Burglaries Unfortunately, the holiday season is also a peak time for opportunistic crime. To protect your home from burglaries , keep gifts and high-value items out of sight from windows. Ensure all doors and windows are securely locked, and if you are heading out for a festive event, consider using timer switches on lamps to give the impression that the home is occupied. Escape of Water: Protecting an Empty Property If you are planning to travel to visit family this Christmas, water damage is a major risk that can occur in your absence. A small leak from a frozen or burst pipe can cause catastrophic damage if left running for several days. To prevent catastrophic water damage during a cold snap, remain vigilant against frozen pipes . If you are leaving your property over Christmas, ensure your heating is set to a "frost protection" mode and turn off the water at the mains stopcock to prevent an undetected escape of water . Taking a moment to correctly drain your system can save you from the stress of a major flood and a complex insurance claim. By staying aware of these hazards, you can protect your property and your peace of mind. However, should the unexpected happen, Property Damage Loss Assessors are here to help you navigate your insurance claim and secure the settlement you need to get back on track. Ultimately, Christmas is a time for celebration and making memories with loved ones. By staying mindful of these common hazards and taking small, proactive steps to secure your property, you can ensure your holiday remains joyful and uninterrupted. From all of us at Property Damage Loss Assessors , we wish you a very safe, happy, and hazard-free Christmas season.

Insurance Policy Essentials: What Irish Homeowners Often Overlook Before Filing a Claim

By Alastair roe • December 4, 2025
Most Irish homeowners only read their insurance policy when something goes wrong. Unfortunately, this usually means they discover key exclusions and conditions at the worst possible moment. Understanding the details of your home insurance policy in advance can prevent disputes and ensure that you know what to expect when filing a claim. Commonly Misunderstood Policy Terms 1. Gradual Damage Exclusions Irish home insurance policies rarely cover issues that develop slowly over time. This includes long-term roof leaks, slow plumbing leaks, dampness, mould, and rot. Insurers frequently reject these claims because they consider them maintenance issues rather than sudden events. 2. Maintenance Requirements Most policies require homeowners to keep the property in good condition. If damage is linked to neglect, insurers may reduce or decline the claim. Examples include worn flashing, loose tiles, deteriorated pipes, or blocked gutters. 3. Confusion About Trace and Access Many homeowners assume their insurer will pay to locate the source of a leak. Some policies include this benefit, but others offer limited cover or none at all. Understanding whether trace and access is included is important, as identifying the source of a leak can be more expensive than repairing it. Why Claims Get Declined  1. Insufficient evidence Lack of photos, videos, or proof of sudden damage can lead to disputes with insurers. 2. Repairs performed too early Fixing damage before reporting the claim removes crucial evidence and can weaken your case. 3. Misinterpreting what the policy covers For example, roof damage is not automatically considered storm damage. Insurers often require proof of strong winds in the area and evidence that the damage occurred during the storm. How to Prepare Before Filing a Claim 1. Review your policy regularly A yearly review can help you stay informed about your coverage and any changes the insurer may have made. 2. Know the difference between sudden damage and gradual deterioration Sudden damage is typically covered, while gradual deterioration is generally excluded. 3. Keep maintenance records Photos, invoices, and receipts can protect you if the insurer questions the condition of the property before the incident. 4. Document damage immediately High-quality evidence is essential when dealing with insurance companies. Understanding your policy before you file a claim can save time, stress, and unnecessary costs. When you know what is covered and what is excluded, you are better prepared to take action after an incident. If you want help interpreting your policy or handling a claim, Property Damage Loss Assessors can provide professional support from start to finish. Call James today to discuss the damage to your property and get expert guidance for your situation.

Storm and Wind Damage in Ireland: Common Issues and How Homeowners Should Handle Them

By Alastair roe • December 4, 2025
Storms and high winds are becoming increasingly common across Ireland, especially during the winter months. These events often lead to property damage that ranges from minor roof issues to major structural problems. Understanding how storm damage occurs and how to respond correctly is essential for any homeowner. Making the right decisions early on can prevent unnecessary repair costs and improve the outcome of an insurance claim. Common Types of Storm Damage in Ireland 1. Roof Damage The roof is one of the most vulnerable parts of a home during strong winds. Tiles can become loose or fall off entirely, leaving gaps that allow rainwater to enter the property. Even a single missing tile can cause significant internal water damage. 2. Damage from Falling Trees or Branches During storms, heavy branches or entire trees can fall onto roofs, sheds, cars, or fences. Even if the tree comes from a neighbour’s garden, the affected homeowner typically files the claim. 3. Chimney and Masonry Problems High winds often affect older brickwork. Chimney pots, flues, and masonry can shift or crack, which may lead to structural concerns or water ingress. 4. Water Penetration from Wind-Driven Rain Strong winds push rainwater into places where it would not normally reach, such as under flashings, through vents, or into roof edges. This can cause stained ceilings, damp walls, mould growth, and damaged plaster. What To Do After a Storm 1. Assess the damage safely The first priority is safety. Avoid climbing onto the roof. Instead, inspect the property from the ground or use a phone camera with zoom. 2. Document the condition of the property Take detailed photos and videos of missing tiles, broken gutters, fallen branches, cracks, and interior water damage. High-quality documentation helps strengthen an insurance claim. 3. Make temporary protective measures Cover open areas with tarps or strong plastic sheets to prevent more rain from entering the home. Insurers expect you to limit additional damage, but they also expect you to avoid permanent repairs until the inspection is completed. 4. Notify the insurer quickly Reporting storm damage promptly is important. Delays can lead insurers to argue that the damage might be due to poor maintenance instead of the storm.  Frequent Causes of Claim Reductions Insurers sometimes reduce or decline storm-related claims for reasons such as poor maintenance, insufficient evidence, or pre-existing damage. For example, if gutters were already blocked or roof tiles were already loose, insurers may argue that the damage was not caused solely by the storm. Storm and wind damage may be unavoidable, but losing out on a valid insurance claim does not have to be. Proper documentation, prompt reporting, and expert support can help you secure a fair outcome. If you need assistance with a storm damage claim or want a professional assessment, Property Damage Loss Assessors can help you navigate the process. Call James today to discuss your storm damage and get reliable guidance for your claim.