What to Do in Cases of Storm Damage

It can be difficult to know what to do when a storm hits your home. Careful planning ahead of time can make the process easier and get you back on track as quickly as possible. Basic tips include ensuring that you keep an eye out for hazards like downed power lines, caved-in roofing materials, standing water, and collapsed walls. Take photos of any damaged areas and share them with your insurance company right away. We have listed which steps you can take in order to make this already difficult process a bit easier.

Evacuate

Evacuations occur when a building or city is threatened by a natural disaster, a chemical spill, or a transportation accident. Emergency evacuation plans are developed to ensure that everyone expected to evacuate safely and quickly is able to do so.

The decision to order or defer an evacuation is made based on the level of risk posed to patients, staff, and hospital facilities. An immediate threat to patient or staff safety requires a quick decision to evacuate, whereas a situation that does not yet require immediate action could improve (i.e., no risk of patient/staff injury) or worsen and require a more careful assessment of the situation.

Often, an evacuation decision team will decide to shelter-in-place, rather than immediately order an evacuation. This may be a result of a lack of warning, a lack of adequate planning time, or circumstances that have not yet allowed for the implementation of contingency plans.

Cover the Damage

Having a solid insurance policy is key to a happy home owner, so do your homework and read your policy closely. A well crafted homeowners insurance policy will help you out of any disaster with the least amount of stress and worry. The best way to ensure you get the most out of your insurance plan is to shop around for the lowest rate possible. The key is to compare the coverage and claims of each insurance provider and make sure you are not paying for anything you don't need. Using the right insurance company can also mean getting the best rates for your family's medical and dental needs as well as the extra protection you need from an unexpected loss of your home or property.

Document the Damage

After a storm, it is important to document the damage in your home. This will help you start the insurance claims process quickly and effectively.

Taking pictures of damaged areas is an excellent way to show how much damage has been done. This is a crucial step that will also help the insurance company assess how to best fix your home.

Be sure to take photos of every area that has been affected by the storm. Go room to room and take pictures of damaged items, as well as any structural damages.

It is especially important to make a list of personal belongings that were destroyed or damaged, as this will ensure that they are covered under your insurance policy. Be sure to include the name of the item, its purchase date and brand as well as any other pertinent information about it.

Contact Your Insurance Company

It is always important to contact your insurance company in the event of storm damage. They can provide an adjuster, begin documenting and mitigating the damage, and even help you receive a check for additional living expenses if your home is unlivable.

When an adjuster arrives, he or she will do a walk-through of your home and mark with chalk any damage that may be covered. They will also take a closer look at your roof, siding and deck.

Once an adjuster has inspected your property, they will likely write you a check to replace your damaged items and repair any permanent damage. It is important to keep all receipts for any repairs and purchases that were made.

While some insurance companies operate in good faith and do their best to compensate policyholders for storm-related damages, others are less forthright and may be attempting to deny or underpay your claim. If you believe this is happening, contact your state insurance department for information on their complaint history.

If you are currently in the middle of a situation where you think you need a professionals help, please feel free to contact us. We are here to help you! If you need help straight away, feel free to contact our 24/7 helpdesk:

Dublin: 01 6855675

Laois: 057 86 37500

24/7 Helpline: 087 2061411

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Understanding and Addressing Water Leak Damage to Homes: A Year-Round Concern

By james Armitage • July 9, 2024

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.