Buildings Cover - Do I claim? (roof leak)

Moneybox

I have always paid for top spec Buildings Cover.

I found today that water has been getting into our loft via one of the valleys (this winter has been particuarly wet). 2 of the joists are damp, and there is some evidence of woodworm activity in the wet area (the building was sprayed about 5 years ago which seems to have done the job generally, but not suprised to see activity in wet timber).

It isn't a complete flood, but obviously water is weeping into the roof in this area and is causing these timbers to get wet.


I had first thought to get quotes from local builders and also get them to identify the problem. I was chatting to my neighbour tonight and he said "thats what building insurance is for!".

What should I do? Get a local builder out to locate the problem and give a quote.... OR .. Just call the insurance company and say that the wood timbers are wet in this area and get them to sort it out.

I feel a bit foolish paying for insurance , yet never thinking to use it! I imagine the valleys need to be replaced as they are the older roof tile / concrete type. Would an insurance company pay to fix the leak.. or just the damage done by a leak?

thanks.

dacouch

The chances are it is not covered by a home insurance, as damage to roofs is normally through Storm Damage and we have not had any storms recently. From what you have described it sounds like "Wear and Tear" which is not covered.

Are the valleys lead?

Moneybox

It is wear and tear. I am 99% sure on that as I have looked myself today. They are not lead, Tile and Concrete.

I think you have answered my question! So quick. Thankyou.

dacouch

They might pay for it especially if the claim is lowish eg under £500, it will also depend what the builder puts on the quote / invoice

Moneybox

So still worth calling them? Even if they say its wear and tear?