Damage in a let property: the owner's right reflexes

Water damage on a Sunday evening, a leak from the floor above, a fire in a neighbouring shop: damage always happens at the wrong moment. The first hours count, both to limit the damage and to protect compensation.

In the first hours

1. Make people safe, then stop the cause if possible: cut off water, gas or electricity, call a plumber or locksmith.
2. Take reasonable protective measures to prevent further damage, and keep the invoices.
3. Photograph the damage and its cause before any cleaning.
4. Notify the building manager if common parts or another unit are affected.

The claim

Report the damage to the insurer within the deadline in the policy, often only a few days. Attach photos, emergency invoices and, if a third party is involved, their details and insurer. Depending on the cause, your insurance, the building's, the tenant's or the neighbour's will apply.

Assessment and works

For significant damage, the insurer appoints an assessor. Do not start permanent works before their visit, except documented emergencies. Obtain detailed quotes: they will be the basis for discussion.

And the tenant?

They must be kept informed and able to continue living in the home in decent conditions. If the property becomes uninhabitable, the question of rent during the works must be settled quickly and in writing.

What BDW Invest does

We coordinate emergencies, report the claim, accompany the assessor, compare quotes and follow the works through to compensation. Handling a claim file is subject to a flat fee set out in our agreement.