Last updated: 02 November 2025

Accidental Damage Claims

Accidental damage (AD) is sudden, unexpected physical damage caused by an external force — the classic paint spill on a carpet or a TV knocked from its stand. It’s useful cover, but definitions and exclusions matter.

What counts as accidental damage

Sudden, unforeseen, and not deliberate. A dropped phone is AD; a worn cable isn’t. Many policies split AD into buildings and contents add-ons.

Common scenarios

• Spilled paint or wine on carpets/sofas.
• Broken glass (table-tops, doors, hobs).
• DIY mishaps: drilled pipes, plaster damage.

What’s often excluded

• Wear and tear or defective workmanship.
• Mechanical or electrical breakdown.
• Cosmetic-only damage where function isn’t affected (varies).

Evidence and settlement

Clear photos and a simple explanation go a long way. For fabrics, patch tests and like-for-like samples help. Matching items cover varies — check your wording.