Claims Zone: Lead-lifting woes

Lead theft can result in property damage if it's not spotted in time

Hiscox’s claims underwriters have reported an increase in claims for lead theft from roofs this year. Venues such as churches and community buildings are most vulnerable, as well as dental and doctors’ surgeries. But Hiscox has also received significant numbers of claims from household customers.

At this time of year, your clients should carry out a simple visual inspection of their roof, which can be done from the ground or from an upstairs window. If the inspection reveals that lead has been stolen, it is important for repairs to be left to the experts.

Without these checks, theft of lead only becomes apparent following a heavy downpour. Your clients do not want to be made aware of lead theft thanks to a damp ceiling, by which point the leak could be causing further damage.

On returning from a holiday, one Hiscox policyholder noticed water stains on their ceiling and thought that the problem was down to the poor workmanship of their roofing contractor. However, once it had been established that lead theft caused the leak, Hiscox immediately arranged for repairs to be carried out to the roof and the internal damage to the house.

Clients should be reminded to remain vigilant with security and maintenance at all times.

“We’re asking brokers to remind household and commercial customers to be vigilant around theft of lead to avoid damage from bad weather,” says Debbie Hayward Rayner, Schemes Claims Manager at Hiscox. “It tends to happen during school holidays and bank holidays, so clients should certainly inspect their properties at these times.”