When you’re in the new-build or self-build bubble—agonizing over Farrow & Ball paint shades and herringbone flooring—it’s easy to feel secure in that “comfort blanket” of newness. But what happens when your labor of love lets you down?
When the “new build bubble” bursts, your eyes might glaze over at the word ‘insurance,’ but reading this could save you thousands in heartache. If your perfect home has suffered damage, here is the insurance advice you need to protect your investment.
When the Dream Meets Reality: Common New Build Damage
Property damage in a new home feels like a betrayal, but it happens more often than you think. We regularly see:
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The Leaking Pipe: That expensive hardwood floor buckling because of a hidden underfloor leak.
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The Damp Patch: Beautifully painted walls flaking away due to water ingress.
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The Scorch Mark: That wood-burning stove causing heat damage to your Karndean flooring.
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The Chimney Crack: Heat causing structural cracks in a chimney breast that now require urgent repair.
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The Worst Case: Fire or smoke damage that turns your world upside down.
Not All Superheroes Wear Capes (Some are Loss Assessors)
This is where a Loss Assessor acts as your professional advocate. While the insurance company sends an adjuster to protect their profits, we work for you. We manage the entire process, from reporting the claim to negotiating your entitlement and advising on local contractors for the rebuild.
A Vital Warning: Rebuild Value vs. Resale Value
One of the most important pieces of insurance advice for new build owners is how you calculate your cover.
Always insure your home for the rebuild value, NEVER the resale value.
Most policies are subject to a condition called “Average.” If your home is underinsured (for example, by 25%), your insurance company can legally deduct 25% off your final payout. With construction costs rising in Ireland, you must reassess your cover every year.
Pro Tip: Visit the SCSI website for current rebuild costs to ensure your “Sum Insured” is accurate.
Don’t Regret Your Decision—Call the Professionals
You spent months making decisions for your property; don’t let a poorly managed insurance claim be a decision you regret. If you are experiencing property damage or simply need expert information on your entitlements, we are here to support you.
When insurance advice is needed, contact the professionals.
Call our claims assessors today: 0818 929 555