As temperatures are set to plunge this week, homeowners have been given advice on how to prevent their pipes from freezing.
Met Eireann has predicted snowfall will hit Ireland by Thursday, with temperatures set to plummet below zero in parts of the country. The icy conditions could spell disaster for some people’s homes, particularly those who are uninsured against extreme weather events.
CEO of insurance company Peopl Paul Walsh says: “A burst pipe could cost tens of thousands euro worth of damage if water is left running for a few days. The bill for the damage could even be more if a pipe bursts while you’re away as you’ll likely have to replace plasterboard, walls, wardrobes, kitchen units and so on – and you’ll probably have to repair electrical damage too .”
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However, there are several easy ways to avoid costly repair bills this winter. Peopl recommends checking the water tank and pipes in attics ahead of the big freeze to ensure they are properly insulated.
Additionally, the insurance company recommends wrapping towels on outdoor pipes to prevent them from freezing over in harsh conditions. There are also several tell-tale signs of burst pipes worth looking out for in the coming days- excess mould in showers or bathrooms, particularly mould that is growing mushrooms, could mean there’s a burst pipe lying undetected behind the bathroom wall.
Although people may be reluctant to use their heating due to the surge in energy bills, the insurance provider recommends putting it on for short periods of time to keep water circulating throughout the house. Additionally, knowing where your stopcock is crucial so people can turn off their water supply in the event that their pipes rupture.
The advice follows a recently published Central Bank report, which revealed that one in six Irish households are underinsured. The research found that some homes are underinsured by up to 30 or even 50 percent, which risks homeowners having to foot a large part of their emergency repairs bill.
While homeowners should keep an eye out on their pipes as the cold snap approaches, professional help is recommended in the event of a breakage. Peopl recommends contacting your insurer immediately after noticing ruptured pipes, in order for the home emergency team to provide a call out to your home.
Additionally, the company recommends contacting your insurer ahead of forking out for any bills. Experts strongly advise taking photos of the damage caused to your home to help back up any claims made to an insurance provider.
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