What to Do In a Case of Lightning Damage To Property

Lightning damage can happen to anyone, however, we are never fully prepared. We have a guide for you that explains the obvious steps for you to take.

A lightning strike can be a very scary thing to think about. But it happens to the best of us, and it can have a serious impact on your home.

A lightning strike can be a very expensive event, and it’s important to have the right insurance coverage in place. Learn how your homeowners policy will cover lightning damage.

Call the Fire Department

Lightning is one of the most dangerous weather hazards in the country. In a millisecond, it superheats the air to almost 50,000 degrees and causes shock waves that can break foundations, crack concrete and brick structures and break plaster walls.

Homes and other buildings can be hit by lightning in three ways: through direct strikes, through wires or pipes that extend outside the structure, and through the ground. All of these methods can lead to electrical, phone and plumbing systems becoming a fire ignition hazard.

Power surge damage is another common problem, since a lightning strike can cause power to randomly choose its victims and overload the home’s wiring. Televisions, computer systems and other devices that use multiple outlets often die when lightning strikes.

Call Your Insurance Company

When lightning strikes your property it can be one of the most destructive types of damage. While a direct strike to the home can be easy to prove because it causes fires or charring, other types of lightning damage are more difficult.

The most common lightning-related damage is a ground surge. These are spikes in electricity that travel throughout an area, often causing damage to sensitive electronic equipment and house wiring.

These claims can be difficult to collect because it can be hard to determine where the spikes originated from.

The most important thing to do when filing a lightning claim is to document all of the damage. This means taking photos of the area where the strike happened and also pictures of any damaged items inside the home, such as a computer or television set.

Call Your Insurance Agent

Lightning can cause serious damage to your property, especially if it wreaks havoc on the wiring in your home. It can also spark fires that are hard to detect.

In a case like this, it’s important to notify your insurance company right away so you can file a claim. Your policy will cover the cost of repairs, as well as any personal items that have been damaged by lightning.

You should also receive a check for additional living expenses if you’re temporarily unable to stay in your home while repairs are made. These costs typically equate to 20% of your dwelling coverage limit value.

You’ll need to document all of the damages done by lightning to your home and property in order to make a valid claim. Take photos and write detailed descriptions so you can share them with the people who will be reviewing your case.

Call a Professional

If your property was struck by lightning, it is best to call a professional for help. The right person can ensure you are fully covered and that your property is repaired properly.

Lightning damages can include fires and power surges, as well as damage to your appliances, electronics, phones and computers. These losses can be difficult to quantify and may lead to problems with your insurance company.

Depending on your policy, you may be able to get a full refund for your damaged appliances, electronics or phones. If not, you may be able to get replacement value coverage for the loss, which would cover what it’d cost to replace the items with new ones today taking depreciation into account.

Lightning strikes are a natural occurrence that occurs throughout the United States and can cause billions of dollars in damages to business and homeowners alike. It is important to have a plan in place to prepare your business for potential lightning strikes and to be proactive to prevent them from occurring.

If you wish to contact a professional to go over the damage in your house, you can always contact us. Our team is always ready to provide you with all the help your need. Contact us at:

Dublin: 01 6855675

Laois: 057 86 37500

24/7 Helpline: 087 2061411

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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.

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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.