TW flooding / ruining my property - advice sought

I would appreciate any help/advice on this horrible saga that has taken over my life.


At my request Thames Water (using their subcontractor) installed a water meter into my property (under kitchen sink). Whilst doing so the 'technician' managed to severely flood my entire property for the best part of an hour as the stopcock burst & he was unable to turn it off or turn off the external ones (which he never checked were located before doing so).


Substantial damage has been caused throughout the whole property, deeming it inhabitable for the next 6 months & all of our stuff has been ruined or taken to storage for inspection/repair.


Property is owned by me & is a leasehold property. I've informed managing agent who said it's TW responsibility.


TW have admitted full liability and fault.


I would like advice on the following:
  1. I'm being advised by Loss Adjuster to claim via my insurance rather than Thames'. I only have contents insurance. If I do this surely my insurance renewal/excess will just increase. I can't see the benefit of this. I'm being told I will get a better deal as TW won't give me a 'new for old' cover.
  2. What are my rights? Although TW are paying for accommodation costs they are now not contactable even though I was promised 24/7 care until it was sorted out.
  3. Loss adjusters are nit picking everything, expenses etc. I have never been given a clear indication (despite asking) what I'm entitled to. What should I do?
  4. Can I claim for all bills that I'm having to pay whilst I'm not living at property. Currently in a hotel but hoping to be rehoused (at TW's expense) soon.
Has anyone else been in this situation?


I've looked into what I can get via compensation as this is really taking its toll on me & wearing me down. I'm not hopeful that it's going to be any more than £1,000. Any know?


Any help/advice would be greatly appreciated.

Comments

  • FreeBear
    FreeBear Posts: 14,350
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    Forumite
    If you go through your own insurers, they would (should) fight the case on your behalf and it will end up costing TW substantially more. Do you have legal cover built in to your insurance policy ?

    In your position, I would expect and demand that TW put you in the same position as you were prior to the flooding - This includes covering all your expenses and ensuring all possessions are replaced on a like for like basis. Compensation for inconvenience would then be on top.

    Without the backing of your own insurers (with or without the legal cover), you may have to initiate court proceedings on your own if TW won't play ball. May be some press coverage would help to focus their attention...
    Her courage will change the world.

    Treasure the moments that you have. Savour them for as long as you can for they will never come back again.
  • Thank you so much for your reply, I really appreciate it.


    Unfortunately I don't have this type of cover on my house insurance. I do get a new for old thankfully.


    If TW continue meeting me around I will look to go to the papers.
  • Annie1960
    Annie1960 Posts: 2,997
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    Forumite
    Google Law Express. They do legal advice over the phone, and their costs are something like £30 to £35 per call.

    If you use them, make sure you write a list of all the points you want to cover so get the all in the same call, as you pay each time you ring.

    Alternatively, you could contact the solicitor you used to buy the lease if it was not too long ago. They may be willing to give you a quick five minutes of advice on the phone and point you in the right direction.
  • Thank you so much. I'll give them a call as sadly it's STILL not resolved all these months later.
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