Is My Water Damage Covered by Insurance

8/5/2016 (Permalink)

Discovering Water Damage to my home

For many homeowners, the fear of discovering Water Damage somewhere in their home is among their top concerns. This is because water damage can happen quickly, and can be expensive and challenging to fix.

Most homeowners assume that because Water Damage is commonplace, that it is covered as part of their homeowner’s insurance. However, there are different kinds of water damage, which may or may not be included, depending on your insurance policy. Below is an overview of different kinds of water damage, and what you can expect from your insurance. 

 General Water Damage

Most homeowner’s insurance covers sudden or accidental water damage inside your home, which includes water line leaks, burst pipes, and if your appliances or sinks begin to overflow or leak. In many cases, burst pipes and appliances are covered by residential insurance policies, but there are often stipulations that must be taken into consideration. 

For example, most insurance companies consider “water damage” to refer to water which hasn’t entered your home through the ground or your sewer lines, so if your problem is a result of these factors it may not be covered. 

Additionally, if you are planning to be away from your home for more than a day, consider shutting off the main water supply, and coordinate to a friend or neighbor to check up on the state of your home while you are away. If you don’t take these precautions before going away, your insurance company may reject your insurance claim. If you’re traveling for business or taking a vacation, make sure to coordinate accordingly to ensure that your home is safe while you’re away.

 Sewer Line Backups

If “clean water” insurance claims refer to water, which has entered your house through your plumbing, then “dirty water” refers to the water found in your sewer line, drains, septic tank, downspouts, and eaves troughs.

Sewer line issues can happen for a variety of reasons, including freezing and thawing pipes, homeowner damage during landscaping and renovations, and when rain or snow overwhelms the city sewer system, causing sewer lines to back up into residential homes.

In most cases, sewer backup isn’t a standard feature and it may not included in your property insurance. However, it can usually be added as optional coverage, and is especially useful if you live in a rural area which is prone to flooding, or which requires you to have a septic tank or sump pump. 

Protect your Home

Your home is arguably your most valuable asset, and as a result, it’s important that you stay informed about how to protect it. If your home has encountered water damage and is in need of emergency services call SERVPRO of Palm Desert.