Almost all homeowners experience water damage caused by frozen pipes, floods, and faulty plumbing systems at some point. Unfortunately, unexpected water damage is inconvenient, damaging, and stressful, especially since insurance companies only cover some water damage. Keep in mind that many people select a more affordable insurance plan, like an HO-1 with restricted coverage.
Types of Water Damage That Insurance Cover
Usually, all water damage that is accidental and sudden is covered by your insurance, but not gradual leaking. Your standard homeowner’s insurance should cover the following:
1. Frozen and Burst Pipes
Your insurance typically covers the needed repair work and cleaning of water damage resulting from a frozen pipe that burst. However, there are some scenarios that may be denied. For instance, when you switch off your heater because you’re going away for a vacation for a few days, causing the pipe to freeze when temperatures outside dropped.
If you intend to get away for a more extended period, you may ask a friend or relative to check on your house and ensure your heat is running when needed. You may need to drain your plumbing system and shut down your water system when leaving throughout the winter season.
2. Water Damage After a Fire
Putting out a fire needs hundreds of gallons of water, especially if the affected area is huge. Unfortunately, this causes damage to your house, destroying its structures. It can also result in mold, which is harmful to your family’s health. Thankfully, a lot of insurance covers mold remediation.
In case you have to seek the help of professionals, it’s always best to hire companies near you. Remember, water damage requires immediate attention. For instance, you can go online and search “water damage restoration North Greece” if you’re from the area.
3. Accidental Leaks
Homeowners’ insurance can cover damages from leaking plumbing systems if it’s sudden and accidental. For instance, your washing machine supply hose suddenly breaks or a pipe bursts. Know that you can not make claims if it’s due to poor maintenance. If you fail to fix a leaking toilet, it’s most likely that they will not pay for it.
4. Water Damage from Storms
Homeowners insurance does not cover all water damage brought by a storm, such as floods and earthquakes. If you want to make claims for water damage caused by a flood, you need to obtain different insurance coverage, such as flood insurance.
Your homeowners insurance can cover water damage caused by wind, hailstorms, lightning, or fallen trees. Ensure to read your policy to understand what’s covered and what’s not.
5. Water Damages from a Roof Leak
A homeowners insurance policy typically covers roof leaks caused by storms. But if a leak occurs due to lack of maintenance, you might need specialists, such as PuroClean, to pay for the repair work from your pocket. As a general guideline, homeowners’ insurance covers any accidental occurrences that caused water damage to your house.
For instance, if a storm knocks down a tree and puts a hole in your roof, your insurance policy is most likely to cover the property restoration services you need. However, in case of wear and tear causing a leak, you need to look after the damage yourself.
Hazards Typically not Included in Your Homeowners Insurance
- Floods
- Smog, rust, and corrosion
- Damage caused by pets
- Negligence and general wear and tear
- Damage resulting from an infestation of animals or insects
- War or government action
- Settling, cracking, or warping of your home’s foundation
- Earthquakes, landslides, and mudslides
