As Ireland heads into the coldest months of the year, homeowners are being warned that failing to take simple precautions during freezing temperatures could put their home insurance claims at risk.
Frozen pipes, burst water systems, blocked gutters, and neglected heating systems aren’t just costly repairs, in some cases, insurers may dispute claims if preventative steps haven’t been taken, leaving homeowners to cover the costs themselves.
To help Irish homeowners this winter, Conor Mulcahy, Head of Product & Renewals at Quote Devil has highlighted common cold-weather risks and practical steps homeowners can take to keep their insurance claims valid.
Winter risks that could impact Irish homeowners’ insurance this season:
Conor Mulcahy says: “Insurers expect homeowners to take reasonable steps to protect their property. In winter, many of the claims we see could have been avoided with simple precautions. If a home isn’t prepared for freezing temperatures, it can lead to costly repairs and, in some cases, claims being reduced or disputed if the damage could have been prevented.”
- Frozen or burst pipes: Pipes left exposed to freezing temperatures can burst, causing flooding and damage to floors, walls, and personal belongings. Many policies expect homeowners to insulate pipes and take steps to prevent freezing; failing to do so may result in claims being reduced or disputed. Remember to insulate all exposed pipes, and keep your home heated to prevent freezing.
- Water damage to appliances: Dishwashers and washing machines are particularly vulnerable to leaks from frozen pipes. If damage occurs because appliances weren’t maintained or protected, insurers may consider this preventable and adjust claim payouts accordingly. Check hoses and connections, service boilers, and consider turning off or draining appliances if the property will be unoccupied in freezing weather.
- Blocked gutters and drains: Clogged gutters and drains can lead to overflowing water, structural damage, and damp issues. Home insurance policies generally expect regular maintenance; failing to clear gutters could lead insurers to question claims for water damage. Clear gutters, check drains for blockages, and ensure downpipes are directing water away from your home.
- Heating system failure: Neglected or poorly serviced heating systems can fail during cold spells. Insurers may view a lack of maintenance as a failure to mitigate risk, which could result in reduced claim settlements. To prevent issues, service your boiler annually, bleed radiators, check thermostats, and ensure all heating is working efficiently.
- Roof damage from ice or snow: Ice and snow can put extra strain on roofs, especially older structures. Ice dams can cause leaks that insurers may dispute if routine maintenance could have prevented the damage. Regularly inspect your roof for loose tiles or shingles, remove excess snow safely, for example, using a roof rake from the ground rather than climbing on the roof, and make sure gutters and downpipes are clear.
- Frozen or slippery paths and driveways: Slips and falls on icy paths can lead to liability claims. Not gritting or clearing pathways could leave homeowners legally and financially exposed, and claims under liability coverage may be questioned if reasonable precautions weren’t taken. Keep paths, steps, and driveways as clear of ice and snow as possible, and use grit or salt to reduce slipping hazards.
- Water ingress from poorly sealed windows or doors: Gaps in window seals, cracks in masonry, or exposed joints can allow water to enter your home, causing damp or water damage. Insurers may consider whether the damage could have been prevented through regular upkeep when assessing claims. During cold snaps, avoid painting exposed wood, but check seals and cracks and apply cold-weather-friendly sealants where possible. Ensure gutters and downpipes are clear, and consider temporary waterproof covers for any vulnerable areas.
- Power outages and electrical issues: Winter storms can cause power surges that damage appliances. Policies often expect homeowners to take basic precautions, such as using surge protection. Not taking such measures could result in limited coverage for electrical damage. Use surge protectors on valuable appliances such as computers, TVs, gaming consoles, and kitchen equipment. Unplug electronics during storms, and ensure that your home’s electrical system is in good condition.
Conor Mulcahy at Quote Devil concludes, “Cold months are when small oversights can turn into costly, insurance-related problems. Taking precautions such as clearing gutters and checking seals is essential for protecting your home and ensuring any potential claims are valid.
“Remember, every insurance policy carries an 'excess'. This is the amount that you need to pay before the insurance cover kicks in. Typically for water damage (the most common winter claim), this amount is €500, but it could be as high as €1,000. So, it pays to do some Winter Preparation on your home.”
