What constitutes a property emergency?
A property emergency is any situation that poses an immediate risk to the security, structural integrity or habitability of your Cornwall home — or that could cause significant damage if not addressed promptly. Common emergency situations we respond to include:
- Burst pipes and sudden water leaks
- Storm damage to roofs, windows or external structures
- Security alarm activations
- Suspected break-ins or security breaches
- Loss of heating during winter periods
- Flooding — both internal and external
- Fire alarm activations (in coordination with emergency services)
- Gas smell reports or utility failure
How quickly can you respond?
Response time is our priority in an emergency. As a Cornwall-based operation, The Cornwall Office is positioned to attend your property significantly faster than any response from your primary residence. In most circumstances across our coverage area, we can attend within one to two hours of notification.
Platinum members receive emergency attendance as a core part of their membership. Silver and Gold members have access to emergency response at an agreed additional rate.
What happens when you attend?
On arrival, our first priority is to assess the situation accurately and prevent further deterioration. We will contact you immediately with our findings and, where necessary, call the appropriate emergency services.
We carry a standard set of emergency materials to address minor immediate issues — for example, isolating a water supply to prevent further flooding, or temporarily securing a damaged window. For anything requiring specialist contractor attendance, we can mobilise our vetted trades network rapidly.
You will receive a full written account of every emergency attendance, including photographs, the actions taken and any follow-up recommendations.
Burst pipes and water damage in Cornwall second homes
Water damage is consistently among the most costly issues facing Cornwall second-home owners. Cornwall's winter temperatures, combined with periods of vacancy and older property stock, make burst pipes a genuine and frequent risk.
The Cornwall Office recommends that all second-home owners establish clear procedures for winter periods — including when heating should be left on, at what minimum temperature, and what actions to take before a prolonged period of vacancy. We can advise on this as part of your consultation.
Storm damage response in Cornwall
Cornwall's Atlantic-exposed coastline means storm damage is not a rare event — it is a regular seasonal reality. Wind, rain and coastal salt air can damage roofing, guttering, external structures and windows with little warning.
Following any significant weather event, we conduct storm checks on all member properties as standard. If damage is identified, we coordinate immediate temporary protective measures and arrange quotations for permanent repairs through our vetted contractor network.