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Making a trace and access insurance claim can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re already dealing with the stress of a water leak. Understanding the process of making a water leak insurance claim can help you navigate the complexities involved. Trace and access covers the costs associated with identifying the source of the leak, which may require removing parts of the building to gain access to plumbing. However, understanding the process and your responsibilities will give you a smoother path to reimbursement and repair. This step-by-step guide will walk you through how to make a trace and access claim, what documents you need, and what to expect along the way.
For more insight into how our team can help, visit our Trace and Access service page.
What is a Trace and Access Insurance Claim?
A trace and access claim is a specific type of home insurance claim that covers the cost of locating and accessing a leaking pipe or hidden water leak within your property. This does not necessarily include the cost of fixing the leak, only finding and exposing it, although some insurance policies do cover related repairs. Cover trace is designed to locate the source of a leak and manage the disruption caused during the process, but it does not include the costs associated with repairing the leak or any resulting damage.
Most buildings insurance policies provide some form of trace and access cover, but not all include it as standard. It’s essential to check your insurance policy wording to understand what’s covered. For a detailed breakdown, Aviva – Making a Home Insurance Claim offers guidance on what to expect during a home insurance claim.
Step 1: Spot the Signs of a Leak
Early signs of a hidden leak include:
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Damp patches or mould growth on walls, ceilings, or floors
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A sudden drop in boiler pressure
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An unexplained increase in your water bill
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Musty smell or mildew
If you notice any of these, it’s time to investigate further.
Step 2: Contact Your Insurance Provider Immediately
Don’t delay-contact your insurance company as soon as you notice signs of a leak. Most home insurance policies stipulate that you must notify them promptly to avoid complications with your insurance claim.
Understanding your insurance cover is crucial to ensure that you are aware of what is included and what is not. Coverage for trace and access can vary based on the policy and level of cover, so it’s important to confirm if ‘access included’ is part of your policy. Request confirmation that your policy includes trace and access cover. If so, ask if they will appoint a leak detection specialist or if you are free to select a company yourself.
Some insurance companies require you to use their approved tradespeople; others let you hire your own, in which case it’s vital to confirm that your provider will accept their report and quote. According to the Association of British Insurers (ABI), prompt reporting and accurate records improve the chances of a smooth claims process.
Step 3: Arrange a Leak Detection Survey
Next, hire a qualified leak detection specialist or an access company. These experts use specialist equipment such as thermal imaging, acoustic sensors, moisture meters, and tracer gas to find the leak’s origin with minimal damage.
The technician should provide a detailed report, including:
The source of the leak
The extent of the damage
Recommended remedial actions
Photographic evidence
An itemised quote for the work
This documentation will support your trace and access claim and improve your chances of a successful insurance claim.
According to MoneySuperMarket, trace and access costs can reach up to £5,000 or more, depending on the complexity of the job.
Step 4: Submit Your Insurance Claim
You’ll need to provide your insurance provider with:
The leak detection report
Photographs and video of the damage
An estimate for the cost of tracing and accessing the leak
Details about when and how the leak was first discovered
Any emergency plumber invoices (if applicable)
Ensure that you provide all relevant information, including photographs and video of the damage, to support your claim. If a specialist is sent by the insurance provider, the costs will typically be covered without the policyholder needing to pay upfront. However, if the policyholder arranges for a service independently, they may have to pay upfront and later seek reimbursement from their insurer.
If your claim is approved, the insurance company may either reimburse you or directly cover the costs through their network of professionals. Some insurers also require you to complete a claim form or speak with a loss adjuster, especially if the value of the claim is significant. The Citizens Advice Bureau – Insurance offers useful guidance on preparing for a claim and understanding your rights.
Step 5: Understand What’s Covered and What Isn’t
Generally, trace and access cover includes:
Labour to find the leak
Use of non-invasive tools like thermal imaging cameras
Lifting floorboards or removing wall panels
Reinstatement work to return your home to its original condition
However, it may not cover:
Fixing the damaged pipes or valve
Damage due to general wear and tear
Damage due to poor maintenance
Any upgrades to outdated plumbing
Always verify your coverage and policy limits. Some insurers cap trace and access claims at £5,000, while others go higher. Compare the Market – Trace and Access Insurance Guide outlines what is and isn’t typically covered.
Step 6: Follow Up and Keep Records
Keep a record of all communication with your insurance company, including:
Emails
Claim reference numbers
Names of representatives you spoke with
Dates of all actions taken
A loss assessor can assist in recovering costs related to damage caused by leaks, which are typically not covered under trace and access cover.
This helps in the event of disputes or delays, especially when verifying that the damage has been properly repaired. Most home insurance providers resolve trace and access claims within a few weeks, but complex cases may take longer. If you experience unreasonable delays or claim denial, the Financial Ombudsman Service – Water Leaks and Insurance may help mediate your dispute.
Step 7: Proceed With Repairs
Once your claim is approved, work can begin to repair the damage. If your trace and access cover includes access reinstatement, the insurer will likely cover these costs.
While trace and access cover includes locating the leak, the costs of repairing the leak itself are usually covered under a different section of your home insurance policy, and coverage does not extend to pipes that have been damaged intentionally.
Always use qualified professionals for repair and restoration. Insurers may reject claims that involve unlicensed or unauthorised tradespeople. You can find qualified professionals through TrustMark – Government Endorsed Tradespeople and the Gas Safe Register.
How 0800 Homefix Supports Your Trace and Access Claim
At 0800 Homefix, we specialise in helping homeowners and landlords:
Accurately locate leaks using advanced tools
Prepare detailed reports tailored to insurer requirements
Coordinate with your insurance provider to help you secure a successful insurance claim. We ensure that all documentation meets the standards required by insurance firms.
Insurance policies may cover damages caused by leaking pipes, emphasizing the importance of understanding what is included in the coverage, particularly regarding trace and access for repairs.
We work efficiently to detect issues with minimal disruption to your home. Whether you’re experiencing a burst pipe, damp patches, or suspect a hidden leak, our Gas Safe and City & Guilds certified engineers are here to help.
Final Thoughts
So, how do I make a trace and access insurance claim? The process involves early detection, prompt contact with your insurance company, professional leak detection, thorough documentation, and ongoing communication.
It is crucial to act quickly when you suspect a leak to minimize damage and improve the chances of a successful insurance claim. For example, needing to remove floorboards or having a leak from above are specific scenarios where trace and access coverage applies to real-life situations involving water leak detection and repair.
Having trace and access cover in your home insurance provides critical protection against the costs of locating hidden leaks. Without it, you could be left footing the bill for both investigation and restoration.
If you suspect a leak or need expert assistance, contact 0800 Homefix today to get started with a trace and access survey.