Fire Damage Claim | This particular fire damage claim concerns a retired couple living in detached bungalow in Co. Leitrim. The flat roofed extension at the rear of the property had become damaged and was allowing water to leak into the bathroom.
Our client had tried to get local builders to come and repair the damage, but was unable to get a suitable contractor. As our client had been in the building industry for over 50 years and was handy at DIY, he decided to carry out the works himself.
He was using a gas canister blow torch to apply the new torch on felt to the flat roof area and once the roof was repaired he returned his tools to his shed. On his return he found smoke bellowing from the main roof in the property and the house beginning to be overcome with flames.
The insulation in the main roof at the abutment of the flat roof had caught fire without the knowledge of the owner. Our client used his garden hose, summoned neighbours to assist and called the local part time fire brigade to attend. The fire brigade arrived in approximately 30 minutes, but by that stage the property was beyond repair.
Naturally the owner was in total shock and understandably extremely traumatised by the incident.
Further more he wasn’t even sure if he would even be covered by the insurance, as although it was a freak accident, he had caused the fire himself while repairing the roof.
Insurance Claim Solutions Loss Assessor Helps with the Fire Damage Claim
After a fire like this, people need calm, practical advice from someone who knows how fire claims are assessed.
Luckily for the home owner he was referred to Insurance Claim Solutions by a close friend. Insurance Claim Solutions carried out an initial survey and reported the claim to the insurers. ICS Loss Assessor met with the insurance loss adjusters and contractors on site to establish a plan of action. He then arranged for the policyholder to get an expedited interim payment to cover clothing and emergency accommodation whilst we were confirming policy cover, the scope of works and negotiated the settlement.
The damage to the property was substantial, all of the rooms had either been fire damaged, smoke damaged or subsequently water damage. The main roof was fire damaged, the chimney stacks required demolition, the external walls were fire damaged and all of the windows and doors were damaged beyond repair. The plumbing and electrics were also affected.
ICS negotiated both the building and contents claims with the insurer’s loss adjuster on the client’s behalf. ICS also worked closely with the contractors so that the reinstatement works were carried out to good building practice and current building regulations.