Dealing with water damage in your home can prompt a flurry of questions, chief among them: “Will my homeowner’s insurance cover the repairs?” Water’s destructive potential is undeniable, often translating to hefty repair bills for affected homes.
The answer hinges on the specifics of your homeowner’s insurance policy, particularly concerning the source of the water damage. Generally, standard policies do cover water damage, but nuances abound. That’s where our expertise comes in handy. Engaging our team before reaching out to your insurer can help you understand the extent of insurance coverage for water damage and expedite damage containment and cleanup efforts.
Typically, homeowners insurance extends coverage to:
- Appliance leaks, like those from dishwashers or washing machines
- Burst or leaking pipes
- Roof leaks, in most instances
- Water utilized in extinguishing fires
- Storms, such as heavy rain, resulting in water entry from above
However, it’s essential to note that while certain events causing water damage may be covered, the underlying repairs might not. For instance, while your insurance may cover water damage from a broken dishwasher hose, it likely won’t foot the bill for repairing the hose itself.
Conversely, water damage repair is often excluded from standard homeowners insurance plans if it stems from:
- Floods, typically defined as water entering the home from ground level
- Negligence in home maintenance that leads to damage, like clogged gutters causing water backup
- Intentional acts of damage
- Backed-up sewer lines
Bear in mind that homeowners insurance regulations vary by carrier, so these guidelines serve as general pointers. When water damage strikes, we can help guide you and provide advice on how and when to contact your insurance company. We’re here to support you through the claims process, offering guidance tailored to your circumstances. Call us immediately when a water damage event occurs, and we’ll help you get the cleanup and restoration process handled, as well as assist in communicating with your insurance company the right way.