Emergency works process

Emergency building repairs and insurance claims

If urgent repairs are needed to prevent further damage and your builder has died, disappeared or become insolvent, you may need to arrange emergency works at your own expense.

You can then make a claim with us to seek reimbursement, but please be aware that there is no guarantee your claim will be accepted.

What to do

1. Contact your builder first

If possible, try to contact your original builder before taking further steps.

2. If your builder can’t be contacted and urgent work is needed:

• You can organise emergency works to prevent further damage, but:
  • You will need to pay for the works yourself initially.
  • Any reimbursement is subject to assessment under your Domestic Building Insurance (DBI) policy.

3. Before starting emergency works:

Make sure you:

• Take clear photographs of the defective area.
• Take additional photos during the emergency repair works.
• Ask the contractor doing the work to provide a detailed report explaining:
  • What works were done
  • Why were they necessary
  • A breakdown of costs

Important: Choosing to undertake emergency works before BPC assesses the issue is at your discretion. We recommend you keep detailed records to support your claim.

4. Make your claim with BPC

To seek reimbursement, you’ll need to:

• Complete the claim in full.
• Provide all requested documents, including:
  • Contractor's report
  • Invoices and receipts for all emergency works
  • Photos of the damage before and during repair

Your claim will be assessed in line with the terms and conditions of your DBI policy.