Do You Understand Your Water Damage Insurance Coverage?

6/12/2019 (Permalink)

Worn down rain gutter

Do You Understand Your Water Damage Insurance Coverage?

There's a lot of confusion concerning whether insurance policies cover flood and water damage. Some homeowners' insurance coverage seems to cover much more than their neighbors. The truth is a little bit complicated but basically comes down to the wording of the policy and any exclusions. What are some of the words and phrases that could help clarify the situation?

• Gradual damage
  
• Resulting damage
  
• Subsequent damage
  

Negligence

There are two other phrases you should pay close attention to (although they don't affect whether your damage is covered); these are "actual replacement cost" and "cash value." These terms refer to how much money you might get for your damaged belongings.

Gradual Damage

This type of damage is generally not covered by insurance. If wear and tear have worn down your rain gutters, and water has been running down the side of your home, leaving stains down your siding, this damage may not be covered.

Resulting Damage

Before you fix broken pipe damage, take note of the immediate changes. If this initial damage is covered under your policy, the remaining flood damage may also be covered. However, the costs associated with replacing old piping and equipment with new probably won't be covered.

Subsequent Damage

If a pipe bursts, your insurance coverage may provide you reimbursement for damage to the carpet, paint, drywall, and similar materials. If you hire water damage remediation professionals to clean up and restore your home, the costs associated with that work may also be covered.

Negligence

If the insurance agency can show that the water damage occurred because of the lack of maintenance, the company may deny the claim. The damage from a broken pipe is immediate, but if a homeowner doesn't report the burst pipe for a couple of days, the company may cite negligence.
You can avoid a denied policy by making sure you understand the exact terms of your policy. Review your responsibilities with your insurance agent and make sure you are responsible for the upkeep and maintenance on your Chesterfield, MO, home. Learn before you experience a flood what is covered and what is not.