Water, Water, Everywhere
Water is necessary for survival! We drink, bathe, and swim in it. However, we do not expect it to damage our possessions. Living in Florida, a state surrounded by water increases our chances of becoming victims of water damage.
Water damage caused by appliances, storms, plumbing, and appliances are the most common causes of damage homeowners submit insurance claims for. Knowing which water damage claims are covered and which are not is essential to protect yourself from losses.
Homeowners may see their insurance premiums decrease when limited water damage is excluded, but they will be ultimately responsible for any loss or repairs which is a definite downside to a lower premium.
Water Damage and Protecting Yourself by Knowing What is and What is Not Covered
Most standard policies cover water damage that is sudden or accidental.
Most Standard Homeowners Insurance Policies Cover Water Damage Caused by:
- Flooding
- Sewer backup and overflow
- Water damage that is storm-related
- Freezing of plumbing or pipes
- Damage caused by the weight of snow or ice
It is essential to review your policy to understand what is covered, so there are no surprises. If you have sudden or accidental water damage, there is a high probability it will be covered, or you can add an endorsement to your standard policy to include and cover water damage.
Standard insurance policies do not typically cover gradual damage, which occurs slowly over time. Homes are complex structures with pipes, electrical wiring, and many unexposed parts. These systems are covered, making it virtually impossible to detect when something is going wrong.
A long-standing problem that causes damage is not sudden or accidental and will most likely not be covered.
Gradual Damage Can be Caused by:
- Damage to walls, ceilings, or floors caused by leaky pipes, faucets, or plumbing.
- Damage caused by seepage entering your home from cracks in the foundation.
- A deteriorating roof in need of repair.
- Mold or corrosion.
- Electrical wiring in need of repair.
Your insurance company may deny a claim because while the damage may appear new to you, it may have been gradual damage.
Your insurance agent is the best person to help you understand if the damage you have is covered or not. They can review your policy to explain the coverages you have and any exclusions.
Water Damage Exceptions on Most Homeowners Insurance Policies
All policies exclude wear and tear and gradual damage unless an endorsement has been added. However, there may be exceptions.
- Mold related damage claims – It is essential to consult with your insurance representative to inquire and find out if your policy has a provision for mold remediation coverage or to add mold remediation coverage to your policy.
- Broken pipes or water tanks – If a pipe breaks from wear and tear causing a leak, the parts of the pipe will not be covered by a claim, but the damage caused by the water may be.
The best way to understand your policy and what is and is not covered is to consult with The Gordon Agency. Michael Gordon is an experienced insurance agent who keeps up with the latest insurance trends and will ensure you have coverage you may need in a standard policy or endorsement to protect you from losses.
This is the home of Florida’s Insurance Professionals. We are a multi-line independent agency that provides insurance solutions for both personal, and commercial lines. Combining decades of relationship building with motivated licensed insurance agents to provide coverage options for all of your insurance needs.
Our team of agents relies on our education, integrity, experience, and attention to detail to accurately assess each opportunity and to offer the optimal solutions for all of our clients. We are dedicated to matching the right product for every situation, always at the best price available. Call us at 561-988-3330, visit our website or paste our address in your browser https://tgafl.com/.
The Gordon Agency Inc.
1825 NW Corporate Blvd Ste 110,
Boca Raton, FL 33431
(561) 988-3330
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