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Skimping on building maintenance can lead to cancelled claims
Did you know that your insurance policy does not protect your property against any and every eventuality? You are under an obligation to practice proper maintenance on your insured properties to avoid preventable damage. We’re here to give you more information on what you can do to make sure that you’re in the clear if disaster strikes.
Insurance is a game of statistics. Insurers are able to estimate how often a loss might occur and how severe that loss might be. As insurers only honour claims for loss events brought about through accidental means, it is important to discuss this due to chance concept with your insurer when considering insurance policies for your buildings and property.
This also means that, when it comes to building insurance, you have a responsibility to maintain your properties and keep them in good repair. Any claims for damage that could have been prevented through proper maintenance will not be covered by an insurance policy.
A good example is water damage and flooding caused during a storm. If your property suffers damage during a particularly intense and specific rainstorm, like internal damage due to a leaking roof, it may well be covered under your policy. However, if it is found that you had neglected to maintain the waterproofing of the roof, the policy will not be honoured.
The most common factors in cases like these are blocked gutters, brittle flashing, worn malthoid underlay and thinning thatch. Here are some top tips to ensure that you keep on top of your maintenance – and your responsibilities to your policies:
- The bandage or membrane applied to the join between a roof and the external walls of a building is called flashing. Flashing is prone to becoming brittle and porous as it is often exposed to the elements. This can cause gradual water damage or rising damp. Flashing should be repainted or reapplied on an annual basis.
- The malthoid underlay found on many slate roofs can allow water penetration if it is not replaced when necessary. These should be inspected yearly to check if they still provide sufficient protection.
- Thatch roofs are prone to damage and should be inspected regularly. It is generally accepted that thatch roofs should be restored every five years – and at even shorter intervals if located along the coast.
- The screws and fasteners on IBR- and other iron roofs loosen over time. These should also be checked annually and repaired and sealed as necessary.
Remember that not every risk can be insured. Contact us for assistance in reviewing your budgets and to ensure that you have sufficient reserve funds available to cover unforeseen costs, uninsured risks, future maintenance and repairs to your buildings.
