Understanding and Avoiding Under-insurance on your Irish Home


The growing trend of underinsured properties makes homeowners lose significantly on damage claims. Find out how to avoid it and amend your home insurance policy on time.


At PDLA, our experience as loss assessors has uncovered a concerning trend: a significant increase in underinsured properties among the claims we manage. This issue often comes to light too late for the property owners we assist, usually in the midst of the claims process, leaving minimal room to correct the shortfall in insurance coverage

The Rise of Underinsurance

Underinsurance often results from property owners not adjusting their policy's insured value at renewal time as years go by. Given the fluctuating nature of construction costs in the Irish Market, the insured value of a property should be reviewed and potentially adjusted every time a policy is renewed. This step is vital because most insurance policies include an "average clause," which adjusts the settlement of a claim downwards to reflect the degree of underinsurance.


Real-Life Examples of Underinsurance

  • Example 1: A property insured for €200,000 has a rebuild cost of €250,000. This underinsurance of 20% means any claim settlement could be reduced by the same percentage.


  • Example 2: A property insured for €300,000, with a rebuild cost of €400,000, is underinsured by 25%. Thus, a quarter of any claim settlement might be withheld.


  • Example 3: A property insured for €500,000 faces a rebuild cost of €600,000. This underinsurance of 16.67% would reduce claim settlements by nearly 17%.


Ensuring Adequate Coverage

Determining the proper insured value of your property involves more than considering its market price; it requires an assessment of the total rebuild cost. This often includes demolition, site security, adherence to current building codes, inflation during construction, and professional fees.

The Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland (SCSI) rebuild calculator is a valuable tool for accurately assessing your property's insured value, accounting for various factors such as property size, type, location, and additional features.

Access the SCSI house rebuild calculator here: SCSI House Rebuild Calculator


How PDLA Can Help

As loss assessors and a qualified chartered surveyor, PDLA specialises in helping property owners navigate the complex claims process, ensuring they are adequately prepared and protected against underinsurance. If you're concerned about your property's coverage or if you're facing a claim, our expertise can guide you through ensuring you receive a fair and just settlement.


Concerned About Being Underinsured?

If you're unsure about your property's insurance coverage or if the examples above have raised concerns, it's crucial to take action. Proper insurance coverage is your safety net against unforeseen financial strains in the event of a claim.

For expert advice and support in ensuring your property is adequately insured, contact James Armitage at PDLA. We're here to assist you in every step of the claims process, from assessing your insurance needs to negotiating with insurers on your behalf.


Don't wait for a claim to discover you're underinsured. Reach out to PDLA today, and let us help you secure your property's future.


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Water leak damage is a significant issue for homeowners, occurring not only during winter but throughout the year. From burst pipes during cold snaps to leaks from ageing plumbing systems or faulty appliances, water damage can lead to extensive and costly repairs. At PDLA, we understand the complexities and challenges involved in managing water leak damage and are here to help you protect your property.  Identifying Water Leak Damage Water leak damage can manifest in various ways, some of which are immediately visible, while others may be hidden and more insidious. Key indicators include: Visible Water Stains : Brown or yellow stains on walls and ceilings. Damp or Musty Odours : Persistent damp smells can indicate hidden leaks. Mould Growth : Mould thrives in moist environments and can appear on walls, ceilings, or floors. Increased Water Bills : A sudden spike in your water bill may suggest a hidden leak. Warped Flooring : Wooden floors may buckle or warp due to prolonged exposure to moisture. Preventing Water Leak Damage Proactive maintenance and regular inspections are essential to prevent water leaks. Here are some steps to safeguard your home: Regular Inspections : Check pipes, hoses, and faucets for signs of wear and tear. Proper Insulation : Insulate exposed pipes, especially in unheated areas like attics or basements, to prevent freezing. Monitor Appliances : Regularly inspect appliances like washing machines, dishwashers, and water heaters for leaks. Install Leak Detectors : Place water leak detectors in high-risk areas to receive early alerts of potential leaks. Steps to Take When a Water Leak Occurs Turn Off the Water Supply : Quickly turn off the main water valve to prevent further damage. Document the Damage : Take photos and videos of the affected areas to support your insurance claim. Remove Excess Water : Use mops, buckets, and wet/dry vacuums to remove standing water. Dry Out Affected Areas : Use fans and dehumidifiers to thoroughly dry the area and prevent mould growth. Call a Professional : Contact a professional water damage restoration company to assess and repair the damage properly Handling Insurance Claims Dealing with insurance claims can be overwhelming. PDLA offers expert assistance to ensure your claim is handled efficiently: Professional Assessment : We conduct a thorough inspection to identify all damage, including hidden issues. Documentation : Our team helps you document the damage accurately for your insurance claim. Negotiation : We negotiate with your insurance company to maximise your settlement. Comprehensive Support : From emergency repairs to securing alternative accommodation, we provide complete claims management services. The Importance of Professional Help Water damage can have long-term consequences if not addressed correctly. Our team at PDLA specialises in water damage claims, ensuring that all aspects of the damage are properly identified and repaired. We work diligently to protect your interests and ensure you receive a fair settlement from your insurance company. Contact PDLA for Expert Assistance Don’t let water leak damage disrupt your life or property. Contact PDLA today for professional and dedicated assistance with your water damage insurance claim. Our expertise and commitment to client satisfaction will help you navigate the complexities of water damage restoration and insurance claims, providing peace of mind and ensuring your home is restored to its pre-damage condition. Water leak damage is a serious issue that can occur any time of the year. By taking proactive measures and seeking professional help when needed, you can protect your home and mitigate the impact of water damage. At PDLA, we are here to support you every step of the way.

Guide to Handling Property Damage: Fire, Water, Burglary, and Storms

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General Tips for All Types of Damage Keep Detailed Records: Document all damage and keep receipts for repairs and related expenses. Safety First: Always prioritise the safety of yourself and your loved ones. Professional Assistance: Engaging a property damage loss assessor can ensure you receive fair compensation and support throughout the claims process. Fire Damage Ensure Safety First: Call emergency services immediately to extinguish the fire and ensure everyone is safe. Document the Damage: Take photos and videos of the damage for insurance purposes. Contact Your Insurance Company: Inform them about the fire damage and start the claims process. Mitigate Further Damage: Board up broken windows and cover damaged areas to prevent additional damage. Seek Professional Help: Contact a property damage loss assessor company like PDLA to assist with the claims process and ensure fair compensation. Water Damage Ensure Safety First: Turn off electricity and gas supply if necessary to prevent further hazards. Document the Damage: Take detailed photos and videos of the affected areas. Call a Professional Restoration Company: They will properly dry and clean the affected areas to prevent mould growth. Contact Your Insurance Company: Report the water damage and begin the claims process. Seek Professional Help: Engage a property damage loss assessor to navigate the claims process and ensure fair settlement. Burglary Damage Contact the Police: Report the burglary and document the damage. Document the Damage: Take photos and videos of the damage and any stolen items. Contact Your Insurance Company: Start the claims process and provide necessary documentation. Secure the Property: Repair any damage caused by the burglars and take measures to prevent further incidents. Seek Professional Help: A property damage loss assessor can help ensure you receive fair compensation. Storm Damage Evacuate if Necessary: Ensure everyone’s safety by evacuating if the storm poses a significant threat. Document the Damage: Take detailed photos and videos of all affected areas. Contact Your Insurance Company: Report the damage and start the claims process. Mitigate Further Damage: Cover damaged areas to prevent additional harm from the elements. Seek Professional Help: A property damage loss assessor can help manage your claim and ensure a fair settlement. Lightning Damage Ensure Safety First: Evacuate if there is significant damage and risk of fire or further electrical issues. Document the Damage: Take photos and videos of all affected areas and damaged items. Contact Your Insurance Company: Report the lightning damage and begin the claims process. Seek Professional Help: Professional help ensures all damages are documented, and you receive fair compensation. Power Surge Precautions: Check for damage to electrical systems and appliances; seek professional assessment. For any assistance with property damage claims, contact PDLA. We are here to help you through every step of the process. Contact Us: Dublin: 01 6855675 Laois: 057 86 37500 24/7 Helpline: 087 2061411  Email: info@pdla.ie Ensure your property is protected and your claims are managed professionally with PDLA.
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