Common Water-Related Disasters Insurance Claims May Not Cover
Water damage is one of the most common and devastating disasters that property owners endure. It can be costly and cause long-lasting damage to your home. Although most people believe that their homeowners' insurance covers all types of water damage, there are some instances where policies may not.
As a result, it’s essential to understand the types of water damage excluded from your standard homeowner's insurance policy. By reviewing your policy, talking with your insurance provider, and receiving professional assistance from the experts at ServiceMaster by Singer, you can determine which additional coverage or endorsements might be required to safeguard your home from critical exclusions.
Water Damage from Extreme Storms, Floods, and Storm Surges
Unfortunately, most homeowners’ insurance policies do not cover damage caused by natural disasters, such as hurricanes, tsunamis, storm surges, water from overflowing rivers, and heavy rain. For this reason, purchasing a separate flood insurance policy is important to protect your home in the event of such disasters.
That is right: One of the most common types of water damage that homeowners' insurance does not cover is flood damage. Flood damage is usually caused by flooding due to natural disasters resulting from severe hurricanes and heavy rainfall. Because most insurance policies don’t cover this area, it must be purchased separately.
Maintenance-Related Water Damage
Another type of water damage not covered by homeowners' insurance is maintenance-related water damage. This type of water damage occurs when a homeowner fails to maintain and repair their plumbing, roofing, or any other infrastructure that is vulnerable to water damage. If a pipe in your home bursts due to a lack of maintenance, your insurance provider may not cover the cost of the damage. That is why staying proactive in the upkeep of your commercial or residential property is pivotal.
Gradual Damage
Gradual damage is a situation that parallels maintenance-related damage. This scenario occurs when water leaks silently for an extended period. Over time, this type of damage can cause mold and rot. Homeowners' insurance may not cover gradual damage because it is the homeowner's responsibility to monitor their property and maintain and repair leaks immediately.
Water Damage Due to Neglect
If water damage to your home was due to neglect, it might not be covered by your homeowners' insurance policy. For example, if you went on vacation and forgot to turn off the water in your home, your insurance company could deny your claim even if you have homeowners' insurance.
Water Damage from An Earthquake, Landslide, or Mudslide
Standard homeowners’ insurance policies do not typically cover earthquakes, landslides, and mudslides. You may need to purchase additional coverage or a separate insurance policy to protect your home from this damage.
Water Damage from Sewer Backups & Sump Pump Failures
Sewer backups are another common cause of water damage in homes. In many cases, homeowners' insurance does not cover this type of water damage. If your home is hit by sewage backup, you might have to pay out of pocket for the cleanup and repair.
Sump pump failures often result in extensive water damage that can be expensive to repair. Sadly, standard insurance policies typically do not cover damages resulting from sump pump failures. On the upside, it’s often offered at an additional cost.
Water Damage from Acts of Vandalism
Insurance policies generally do not cover water damage caused by malicious mischief, vandalism, or deliberate action. If someone within or outside of your family deliberately damages your home, your insurance policy will likely leave you high and dry when it comes to related damages.
Water Damage from Swimming Pool or Water Structure Leaks
Swimming pools can enhance your outdoor space, but leaks can be costly and difficult to fix. Most property damage from a leak in your pool, garden pond, or fountain will become a homeowner’s burden to bear alone.
Water Damage from Seepage or Leaks through A Foundation
The foundation of your home is critical to its structural integrity. However, as a vital part of your home’s construction, it's not immune to leaks and seepage, especially in regions with high rainfall or moisture. Unfortunately, conventional homeowners' policies often don't cover damage related to foundation issues.
The Cost To Repair or Replace A Broken Dishwasher or Washing Machine
Household appliances, such as dishwashers and washing machines, can malfunction and cause significant water damage to your home. While some insurers offer protection against appliance breakdowns, a standard insurance policy likely won't cover the cost of repair or replacement.
The Wisdom of Understanding Your Homeowners’ Insurance Ahead of Time
Awareness of the types of water damage not covered by homeowners’ insurance is critical to ensure your property is protected. It is important to read your insurance policy carefully (including the fine print) to understand what is covered and what is not. In many cases, you may need to purchase additional policies or add-ons to cover all your bases.
Need Insurance Assistance? ServiceMaster Can Help!
Water damage can cause significant financial losses if it is not handled immediately. Remember that taking care of your home is essential to prevent water damage. Regular maintenance can reduce the likelihood you will experience water damage and help ensure your insurance covers the water damage that does happen.
Nevertheless, water damage is frequently beyond a home or business owner's control. If your property is affected by water, don’t hesitate to consult your insurance agent to understand your coverage options and determine which policies might be necessary to protect your home fully without delay.
At ServiceMaster by Singer, we also specialize in handling insurance claims and guiding our clients through the process. Our team can give you professional tips and advice on what items to discard, what items to inventory, and how to file claims. Our team has the tools, expertise, and connections you need to tackle water restoration and insurance processes efficiently and successfully!
Do you need professional guidance with restoration insurance? Call {F:P:Sub:Phone} or visit our webpage on insurance to learn more today!
