How can you claim damages from a power outage?
The Netherlands has a pretty reliable power grid. Still, on average once every three years the Dutchman experiences a more prolonged power outage. Amsterdam and the surrounding area suffered another major power outage in January. That showed just how big the consequences can be. Control rooms were briefly overloaded, trains didn't run throughout the country and cooling systems stopped working. But how can you claim the damage suffered as a result of a power failure?
Causes and consequences of a power outage
A power outage can be caused by a power outage, work on the power grid or abnormal voltage, among other things. It can also be caused by, for example, a cable break during excavation work or the fuses in the house blowing. The inconvenience experienced during a power outage is often very annoying, but property damage can also occur. The damage that is by far the most common is the loss of the contents of the freezer or refrigerator due to spoilage.
Compensation Scheme
In case of prolonged power outages, a compensation scheme has been established. This scheme requires the grid operator to give you financial compensation for power outages lasting longer than four hours. The compensation for a four-hour power outage is €35. For every four hours that this power failure lasts longer, you will receive an additional €20. So for example, if you have been without power for 19 hours, you are entitled to compensation of €35 + (3 x €20) = €95 from the grid operator.
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If you are entitled to compensation, you do not have to apply for it yourself. A compensation is in fact paid to you automatically by the grid operator. The compensation should not be considered as compensation for damages but more as an allowance for the inconvenience during a disruption.
Claiming damage on your home contents insurance policy
Of course, it can happen that, as a result of a power outage, you do suffer real damage. It is often very difficult to recover these damages from the grid operator. Often you stand a better chance with the home contents insurer. However, the amount the home contents insurer will reimburse can vary greatly. With some insurers, claims can be made for a power outage from 4 hours and with other insurers only from 6 hours. Some insurers will reimburse up to €250, but there are also insurers who do not apply a maximum amount. Whether and what amount you will be reimbursed in the event of a power failure can be found in the policy conditions of your home contents insurance.
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