IPPN

Published: 07 January 2025

With the cold snap taking hold, it is timely to look at any preventative measures that can be taken to protect your school property. We outline a checklist and some actions that we encourage you to follow.

If you do experience some property damage, rest assured we are here to help. Some basic steps to be taken in the event of damage and relevant contact details are outlined below also.

FROST/FREEZE DAMAGE PREVENTION CHECKLIST

1. 1.Are your pipes and tanks properly lagged?

2. 2.Do all your taps close tightly?

3. 3.Do you know where the main water stop valve is? Are your sure they are working?

4. 4.Are frost thermostats installed?

5. 5.Is heating maintained in the premises?

6. Are drains around the school premises clear?

SUGGESTED ACTIONS

• Maintain heat in the building.

• Remember to protect your oil supply from freezing. The oil supply pipe can be protected with weather-proof insulation and a tarpaulin cover will provide emergency protection to the tank.

• If air vents in the boiler room are closed off, leave sufficient opening to allow an adequate supply of air for combustion.

• Ensure that School grounds are safe and fit for use before opening. As a minimum clear a pathway up to the entrance of the School and maintain that pathway over the period of freezing.

• Beware of snow gathering/overhanging on roof edges that could fall on pathways as a thaw sets in.

• With heavy snow on the ground in places, when this thaws the drains need to be able to take the excess water, ensure these drains are clear.

• Ensure thermostats are correctly set to activate when temperatures drop. It’s recommended they are set at 2°C if located indoors or 0° if outdoors.

• Are doors left open in poorly heated areas (toilets, storerooms, attic etc.) to allow heat in from corridors and or classrooms? This is always subject to fire safety rules and regulations.

• If thermostats are not installed, the school should maintain heat throughout the cold weather period.

• The school should use salt to clear a pathway. If your local supplier cannot provide it, your local council may be able to provide it.

• Consider identifying the clear pathway for staff & pupils to use by lining them with cones.

IN THE EVENT OF DAMAGE:

1. Call relevant professional tradesperson to secure the area & prevent further damage

2. In the event of a burst pipe, ensure the water is turned off at the mains until the tradesperson can address the issue

3. Take some pictures of the damage & request quote from the tradesperson, asking them to confirm in writing what they believe caused the damage

4. Ring Allianz Property Claims team on 01 6133377 to register the claim

5. Allianz Property Claims team will guide you through the next steps

If you have any queries in relation to the above, please feel free to our support team at 01 6133966. If you are insured through an intermediary please contact them directly for assistance..