The effects of Storm Éowyn were felt across Ireland, with many homes suffering damages because of the extreme weather.
Suffering serious damage in a storm can certainly feel chaotic, and it may not be immediately clear to you what steps you should take next. Most standard Irish home insurance policies will cover you for storm damage — but there is still plenty more you need to know if you want to be properly prepared.
Our Claims Adjuster at Allianz who talks us through the essential steps you should take when making a claim in the aftermath of a storm.
What’s the first thing you should do when a storm hits?
If your property has been damaged by a storm, acting quickly and effectively is critical. Some of the steps you should take in the immediate aftermath of a hazardous storm include:
Before doing anything else, you should always make sure you and everyone around you is safe. Check for hazards such as downed power lines or unstable structures.
The next step is to document the damage that will be relevant for your claim. Take clear photos and videos of all affected areas immediately once it is safe. This will help to demonstrate the extent of the damage. Include close-ups and wider shots to provide context.
If you are capable of making temporary repairs, you should do what you can to prevent further damage. Otherwise engage a relevant tradesperson to do so as possible, this demonstrates that you have taken action to protect your property.
Lastly, you must contact your insurance company as soon as possible. If you have a home insurance policy with Allianz, the best way to report a loss is to call us on 01 613 3990. You can also log a claim through MyAllianz (Allianz Direct Customers only) or email propertydamage@allianz.ie. Early notification ensures your claim is processed as quickly as possible and minimises delays in addressing the damage.
How do I know if the damage from a storm is covered by my policy?
The good news is that most standard Irish home insurance policies include cover for storm damage. This typically covers damage caused by wind, rain, and even flooding directly related to a storm event. It’s not just about everyday bad weather; it’s about damage caused by severe and specific storms. You should check with your insurer or refer to your policy documents if you are unsure.
What’s usually covered under an Allianz home insurance policy?
Your policy covers storm damage to the premises which arises from a violent atmospheric event with winds of more than 47 knots (87km/h) which may be accompanied by heavy rain, snow or sleet. Your policy also covers flood damage to the premises which occurs from a sudden and rapid build-up of water on the ground level which comes from an external source and/or an extremely heavy or persistent downpour of rain.
There are common exclusions that you should be aware of however, including damage to fences and gates, lawns, hedges, trees, shrubs and plants; damage to roofs constructed with torch-on felt that are ten or more years of age, or other felt five or more years of age; and frost damage.
Some of us have never experienced this level of storm before. What constitutes minor/major damage?
This will vary with every property but minor damage may involve displaced guttering/downpipes and maybe a few roof slates or tiles. However, the effects of storm winds can be significant and on occasions, partial or indeed complete roof coverings, can be lifted over domestic properties.
Will someone be sent out to assess the damage?
If you’re insured with Allianz, we will request you get a quote from a relevant tradesperson or building contractor to advise of the necessary repair costs. Allianz may involve the services of an independent loss adjusting firm to assist in processing your claim towards. You are entitled to retain a Public Loss Assessor to represent you in progressing your claim but the cost of this service will be at your own expense.
If your claim is €50,000 or more, Allianz offers you €5,000* on top of your claim to make sustainable energy improvements to your home such as a heat pump system or wall insulation whilst you repair the damage to your home. Read more about our Rebuild Better initiative here.
For tips on protecting your home during stormy weather see our blog here.
*Allianz p.l.c. is regulated by the Central Bank of Ireland. Standard acceptance criteria, terms and conditions apply.
