Dealing With Insurance Brickwork Claims: What You Need To Know September 19, 2024 When unexpected damage occurs to your home or property, dealing with repairs can be stressful enough without adding the complication of insurance claims. If brickwork has been damaged due to an accident, weather event, or other insured circumstances, you may need to make a claim. Here’s a guide to help you understand the process of insurance brickwork claims and what you need to keep in mind.1. Understand Your Insurance PolicyBefore making a claim, the first step is to review your insurance policy. Ensure you understand the coverage limits, excess charges, and any exclusions related to brickwork. It's essential to confirm whether the damage falls under your building insurance, as most policies will cover structural damage caused by insured events like storms, flooding, or accidental damage.Key Points to Check:Is brickwork covered by your policy?Does your policy cover the cause of damage (e.g., storm, fire, or accidental)?Are there specific exclusions or conditions for structural repairs?2. Document the DamageWhen you notice brickwork damage, it’s crucial to document it as soon as possible. Take clear, dated photos of the affected area from multiple angles. This will help support your claim when submitting it to your insurer. Make sure you keep any records of emergency repairs carried out to prevent further damage.What to Include in Your Documentation:Photos of the damageA written description of how the damage occurredAny emergency repair invoices or receipts3. Contact Your Insurer PromptlyAfter documenting the damage, contact your insurance company to inform them about the incident. They will likely send an assessor or loss adjuster to inspect the damage and evaluate the cost of repairs. Be sure to provide them with all relevant documentation and details of the incident.Important Tips:Contact your insurer as soon as possible after the damage occurs.Be prepared with your policy number and a detailed account of the incident.Ask for confirmation of what the next steps will be.4. Choose a Reputable ContractorOnce your claim is approved, you will need to hire a brickwork contractor to carry out the repairs. It’s essential to choose a company with a solid reputation for quality work, like K Tunney Brickwork Ltd, to ensure the repairs are completed to a high standard. Some insurers may have preferred contractors, while others allow you to choose your own. Always check if your chosen contractor meets the insurer's requirements.Things to Look for in a Contractor:Proper accreditation and insuranceExperience with insurance-related repairsPositive customer reviews or testimonials5. Get a Detailed QuoteBefore work begins, get a detailed quote from the contractor for the necessary repairs. Make sure the quote includes materials, labour, and any potential unforeseen issues that may arise during the repair process. Share this quote with your insurer to ensure they approve the costs.Include in Your Quote:Full breakdown of labour and materialsEstimated timeline for the workAny potential extra costs (e.g., scaffolding, additional materials)6. Keep Communication Open with Your InsurerThroughout the repair process, stay in regular contact with your insurer. Keep them updated on the progress of the repairs and any issues that may arise. Some insurers may require regular inspections or updates before they release final payments.Steps to Follow:Provide updates on the repair progress.Submit invoices or receipts for reimbursement, as required.Ensure all paperwork is completed before the insurer closes your claim.ConclusionDealing with insurance brickwork claims can feel overwhelming, but by understanding your policy, documenting the damage, and working with a reputable contractor like K Tunney Brickwork Ltd, you can ensure the process goes smoothly. The key is to stay organised and communicate clearly with your insurer at every stage.If you’re in need of expert brickwork repairs, contact K Tunney Brickwork Ltd for professional service and peace of mind.FAQs About Insurance Brickwork Claims Q. What types of brickwork damage are usually covered by insurance? A. Most standard home insurance policies cover brickwork damage caused by insured events like storms, flooding, fire, or accidental damage. However, wear and tear, poor maintenance, or structural issues due to age are typically excluded. Always check your policy for specific details. Q. How do I know if my insurance will cover brickwork repairs? A. Review your insurance policy to see what’s included in your building cover. Look for terms related to structural damage and the types of incidents your insurer covers. If you’re unsure, contact your insurer directly for clarification. Q. What should I do if my brickwork is damaged? A. If your brickwork is damaged, document the damage with photos, contact your insurer, and arrange for emergency repairs if needed to prevent further issues. Then, follow your insurer's claims process to get approval for full repairs. Q. How long does the claims process take? A. The length of the claims process can vary depending on the extent of the damage and your insurer’s procedures. Typically, insurers will send a loss adjuster to assess the damage within a few days, but the entire process can take weeks, especially if the repairs are complex. Q. Can I choose my own contractor for repairs? A. Most insurers allow you to choose your own contractor, as long as they meet the insurer’s standards for quality and reliability. Make sure to hire a contractor experienced in insurance-related repairs, like K Tunney Brickwork Ltd, to avoid any issues with your claim. Q. Where can I find more information about home insurance claims? A. For more details on home insurance claims and what’s typically covered, you can visit trusted sites like the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) or Citizens Advice. These resources offer guidance on insurance rights and the claims process. Q. What is an excess and how does it affect my claim? A. The excess is the amount you pay towards any claim before your insurance company covers the rest of the costs. The higher your excess, the lower your insurance premiums may be, but it also means you’ll pay more out of pocket when making a claim. Your policy will detail the exact excess amount.