What to do in case of water damage

Water damage is one of the most common causes of property damage. However, it is also something that is more serious than what most people think. It can be one of the most devastating events that a property owner can experience. When your house has been damaged by water for a long time, it can result in really bad housing conditions. Your house will start to have mould and eventually it can lead to rot. The fumes of mould and rot are toxic and can have a serious effect on your health. In this article we will talk more about how to prevent water damage but also on what to do when your house is already damaged. 


Water damage Whether it's caused by a burst pipe, a leaky roof, or a flood, water damage can quickly lead to extensive damage and costly repairs. As a property damage loss assessor company, we've seen firsthand the devastation that water damage can cause. 


Step 1: Safety First


The first and most important step in any water damage situation is to ensure that everyone in the property is safe. Depending on the extent of the damage, you may need to turn off the electricity and gas supply to the property to prevent any further damage or danger. If the water damage is extensive, it's best to evacuate the property until it's safe to return. Go to a safer place to make sure you (and possibly your family) are safe before you make any decisions. Call someone that knows more than you do. 


Step 2: Document the Damage


Once everyone is safe, the next step is to document the damage. Take photos and videos of the affected areas, making sure to capture as much detail as possible. It's important to document the damage before any cleanup or repairs are made, as this will help support your insurance claim and ensure that you get the settlement you deserve.

Step 3: Call a Professional


After documenting the damage, it's time to call in a professional water damage restoration company. A professional restoration company will have the expertise and equipment to properly dry and clean the affected areas, as well as prevent further damage from occurring. It's important to act quickly when dealing with water damage, as mould and other issues can develop if the water is not properly removed and dried.


Step 4: Contact Your Insurance Company


Once you've called in a professional restoration company, it's time to contact your insurance company. Your insurance policy may cover water damage, depending on the cause and extent of the damage. A property damage loss assessor company like ours can help you navigate the claims process, working with your insurance company to ensure that you get the settlement you deserve.


Step 5: Get Help from a Property Damage Loss Assessor Company


Dealing with water damage can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. That's where a property damage loss assessor company like ours can help. We'll work with you every step of the way, from documenting the damage and filing the claim to negotiating with your insurance company and ensuring that you get a fair settlement. Our expertise and experience in the industry will help you navigate the claims process and get back on your feet as quickly as possible.


In conclusion, water damage can be a devastating event for any property owner. But by following these steps and getting help from a professional restoration company and a property damage loss assessor company like ours, you can ensure that you get the settlement you deserve and get your property back to its pre-loss condition. Feel free to contact us now. We will make sure you will get your affairs back in order.


Dublin: 01 6855675

Laois: 057 86 37500

24/7 Helpline: 087 2061411


Navigating Storm Damage Claims on Your Irish Property

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By Rachel Bradley • January 8, 2026
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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.