Managing extensive water damage in a period property
Location London
Customer Mrs Sylvia Leahy
Morgan Clark was recommended to an elderly and vulnerable client in Wanstead, East London, after their period property suffered significant water damage due to a burst pipe over the Christmas period. The property, a four-bedroom detached house with original features like parquet flooring, was unoccupied at the time of the incident, leading to the water leaking for an extended period before discovery. The client, recovering from breast cancer and living with hearing loss, required a sensitive and comprehensive approach to their insurance claim, which covered £100,000 in contents and £200,000 in buildings damage.
The Claim
The burst pipe caused severe water damage throughout the property, impacting antique furniture and a valuable vintage Steinway piano. With separate insurance companies for buildings and contents, Morgan Clark took on the challenge of navigating the complexities of the claim. The team worked closely with the client to ensure all aspects of the damage were assessed, including facilitating renovations and upgrades such as replacing rotten windows.
Recognising the client’s vulnerable status, Morgan Clark negotiated a cash settlement in lieu of temporary accommodation, allowing the client to stay with family during the restoration process. The claim lasted 20 months, and the home was completely renovated and updated.
Results
Morgan Clark’s expertise and proactive approach led to a successful outcome, with the client’s home fully restored while also enabling improvements beyond the insurance coverage. Managing such a complex claim, particularly with separate insurance companies and a very significant contents claim, would have been overwhelming for the client without Morgan Clark’s support.
The client’s home is now back to its former glory, with additional upgrades ensuring long-term value and comfort. Morgan Clark’s commitment to guiding the client through each step of the process made all the difference during a particularly challenging time.