Property damage claims under the Risk Protection Arrangement
How the scheme responds to damage to buildings, fixtures, equipment and contents at academies and schools, and what members should prepare before reporting a loss.
Reporting damage step by step
Acting quickly protects pupils and staff and keeps the claim clear.
Make the site safe
Isolate any electrical or water supply, close off affected rooms and arrange temporary protection for pupils and staff.
Record the damage
Photograph every affected area before cleaning or repairs begin, and list damaged items with their age and condition where known.
Complete the claim form
Submit the property damage form with the incident date, a clear description and your estimate of the cost.
Cooperate with the assessment
Give access to the assessor, keep damaged items available for inspection where practical and share quotes as they arrive.
Buildings and contents
The scheme addresses damage to buildings, fixtures, fittings, equipment and contents owned by the trust or school. Cover depends on the cause of loss and the terms set out in the membership pack.
Read the membership pack to confirm what applies to your membership.
Evidence that speeds up assessment
- Photographs taken before any repairs started
- Contractor quotes or invoices for the work
- Asset register entries for damaged equipment
- Simple plans marking the rooms affected
- An incident log entry or police crime reference where relevant
Common causes of loss
Flood and escape of water
Water spreads quickly through floors and ceilings. Isolate the supply, move contents out of the way and photograph the affected areas before drying out.
Fire and storm damage
Note the weather conditions and any emergency services attendance. Keep damaged items until the assessor has seen them, where it is safe to do so.
Questions members ask
Report anything that may affect teaching or the safety of pupils, even if the cost seems small. The membership pack explains the reporting threshold.
Make the site safe and prevent further damage first. Keep evidence of the original condition so that the loss can be verified.
The frequently asked questions cover reporting routes, timescales and document requirements.
Working with contractors
Choose contractors who can provide itemised quotes and clear timescales. Share each quote with the scheme before work is approved, so the assessment can keep pace with repairs.