Storm damage in Ireland: what an independent loss assessor's fee looks like

Services typically included in a storm fee

A storm claim fee generally covers a review of the policy's storm definition and exclusions, collection of weather data for the location and date, inspection of the roof, walls and outbuildings, a technical case against wear and tear arguments, a costed schedule of repairs, attendance at the adjuster's visit, and negotiation through to settlement.

On larger claims, the assessor may also coordinate a structural engineer, check whether scaffolding, waste removal and professional fees are included in the insurer's offer, and press for interim payments to fund permanent weatherproofing.

Part of the value also lies in timing. Storm claims are often reopened when interior damage appears weeks later, for example stained ceilings or wet insulation found during repairs. An assessor who documents the roof and attic thoroughly at the outset makes it easier to attach that later damage to the original storm claim rather than having it treated as a separate event with a second excess.

The cost-benefit test for small roof claims

Many storm claims are modest: replacement of ridge tiles, a section of flashing or a fallen chimney pot. When the repair is €2,000 to €6,000 and the storm excess is several hundred euro, a percentage fee or minimum fee may absorb a large part of the net benefit. Several assessors will say so honestly and suggest dealing directly with the insurer.

The calculation changes when the insurer disputes cause, proposes patch repairs where a re-roof is needed, or applies a wear and tear deduction. In those situations, the gap between the first offer and a fair settlement can be large enough to justify professional help.

Indicative amounts, to be checked with each expert.

Indicative fee bands for storm claims

Ireland has no official fee scale for public loss assessors. The table on this page presents an indicative order of magnitude observed on the market, not an official or legal scale. It is degressive, and it assumes a percentage of the settlement amount, which is the dominant model in Ireland. Firms may vary from these figures depending on complexity, location and workload after a major storm.

Calculation methods and what to clarify

Percentage of the settlement is the usual approach, collected when the insurer pays. Clarify whether the base is the total settlement, the settlement net of the storm excess, or only the increase achieved above an existing offer. On claims where the insurer had already approved emergency weatherproofing costs before the assessor's appointment, ask whether those are counted.

Fixed fees are sometimes offered for well-defined claims, such as a single outbuilding. A minimum fee, stated in euro, is common on roof claims. Fees are normally quoted exclusive of VAT at the standard Irish rate. Additional charges may arise for drone or roof surveys, engineer's reports or arborist opinions on fallen trees.

• Percentage base: gross, net of excess, or uplift only
• Minimum fee and whether it applies if the claim is declined
• VAT treatment and whether you can recover it
• Charges for surveys, engineers and arborists
• Payment timing and termination terms

Policy cover that may offset the cost

Irish buildings policies usually cover reasonable professional fees, such as surveyors and engineers, required to reinstate storm damage, within the sum insured. This normally does not extend to a loss assessor's negotiation fee, and some wordings exclude claim preparation costs outright. Farm and commercial policies occasionally include a claims preparation extension with a monetary limit.

If the policy does contain such cover, it may reduce the fee you bear, but it rarely eliminates it. Get confirmation from the broker or insurer in writing.

From slates to shed collapse: three fee scenarios

A small domestic roof claim of around €8,000 typically falls under a minimum fee or the highest percentage band. A medium claim, perhaps a full re-roof plus ceiling and contents damage after rain ingress, may reach €40,000 to €90,000, where percentage and workload are better balanced. A large farm or commercial claim involving the collapse of a steel-framed shed, damage to machinery and lost output will usually be priced on a negotiated percentage or a capped fee.

Cover for the cost of removing fallen trees is another point to check. Some policies pay to remove a tree only if it has damaged an insured building, and often within a limit. Where tree removal is included in the settlement, ask whether it forms part of the fee base, since arborist and crane costs can be substantial on rural properties.

Worked example: farmhouse and outbuildings in Munster

After a named storm, a farm suffers roof damage to the farmhouse and the partial collapse of a hay shed. The insurer's first offer is €48,000, based on patch repairs and a wear and tear deduction. The loss assessor secures a settlement of €82,000 by demonstrating that the roof could not be matched and that the shed's frame was sound before the storm.

On a full-settlement basis at an indicative 8.5 %, the fee would be €6,970 plus VAT. On an uplift-only basis at 15 % on the €34,000 increase, the fee would be €5,100 plus VAT. These figures are purely illustrative and do not forecast any real settlement.

Choosing well after a named storm

Demand for assessors and roofers peaks immediately after a severe storm. Take time to compare at least two written proposals. Check Central Bank of Ireland authorisation, ask for examples of storm claims handled, and confirm who will inspect your property in person.

Avoid any firm that promises a specific payout, encourages exaggeration or insists on immediate signature. A clear engagement letter, a defined fee base and an honest view on whether your claim needs an assessor at all are signs of a professional approach.

For storm damage, the fee question begins with whether your claim needs an assessor at all, and continues with the fee base and minimum. expertdassure.com recommends asking for both in writing before agreeing to any mandate.