Athenry News & Views Winter 2025

Winter 2025

Most policies include an average clause, meaning if your property is underinsured, your payout is reduced proportionally. Example: Claim: €20,000 × (Sum Insured €150,000 ÷ Value at Risk €300,000) = €10,000 payout Essentially, if your home is insured for half its rebuild value, you’ll receive only half of any claim. With construction costs now exceeding €250 per square foot, many households remain unknowingly under insured. Policyholder’s Toolkit: A Few Practical Tips 1. Know Your Policy. Read your policy schedule, not necessarily the entire document. Focus on what’s excluded and ask why — exclusions often signal where you need extra protection. 2. Check Your Sums Insured. Review cover for buildings, contents, and public liability regularly. 3. Reconsider “All Risks” Cover. It’s often costly and not always economical — focus your budget on the cover that matters most.

4. Always Disclose Past Claims. When switching insurers, disclose your full claims history. Non-disclosure gives insurers a legal reason to reject claims. 5. Increase Your Excess. A higher excess can reduce your premium — worthwhile if you avoid frequent small claims. 6. Maintain Your Property. Keep roofs, gutters, and doors in good repair. Prevention is always cheaper than repair. 7. Manage Tree Risks. Remove tall trees near buildings or parking areas — experience has shown why this matters. 8. Fire Safety Saves Lives. Install fire alarms, detectors, and fire doors where appropriate. They can be literal lifesavers. Smart Protection Pays Off Every bit of prevention adds up. A simple 10% discount on a €600 annual policy, maintained over 10 years, speaks for itself. In an era when storms like Eowyn are no longer once-in-a-lifetime events, being informed, prepared, and properly insured isn’t just wise — it’s essential.

Massive disruption, thousands without power and widespread damage as seen here on the Ballygurrane Road during the following days .