Water damage is a very common cause of property damage in the US. Around 14,000 Americans are estimated to have a water damage-related emergency every day across the country. It is a leading cause of all the insurance claims related to property damage according to the 2019 data shared by ISO (Insurance Services Office).
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It is beneficial for homeowners to have a clear idea of the types of water damage that are covered by their home insurance policies. This knowledge will increase their awareness of the importance of preventing water damage. This in turn will lead to better safety measures and maintenance and reduce the need for water damage restoration-related expenses. Sometimes water damage can occur suddenly and with severe effects, leading to damage that needs immediate attention. Delayed water damage repair increases the risk of worsening damage, safety risks, and higher restoration costs. To control the extent of water damage, water damage restoration and mitigation must begin as soon as possible. Emergency Relief Pros offers emergency services in case of water damage in the Village of Lake in the Hills, and other areas of Illinois. In this article, the company takes a look at homeowners’ insurance coverage of water damage claims.
Only certain types of water damage are covered by standard homeowners' insurance policies. Generally sudden and accidentally occurring water damage can be claimed by homeowners. However, the water damage that has happened due to causes that occur gradually over time is not covered by standard home insurance. Insurance that may cover water damage does not cover the costs of water damage restoration if it is due to negligence on the part of the homeowner. This includes poor maintenance and lack of repair work that lead to water damage.
Unexpected and accidental water damage covered by homeowners' insurance
Pipes that burst when they are old or freezing. But if pipes burst because they freeze when heat is turned off purposely during winter the insurance claim can be denied.
When leaking occurs from a faulty appliance like a washing machine or dishwasher, the water damage repair costs are covered. But the expense of repairing the faulty appliance is not covered.
Water damage resulting from the sprinklers used by the fire department to put out a fire in a home.
Water damage that happens after a hail storm or heavy rains.
Roof leaks due to branches or trees falling on top of roofs during a storm.
Vandalism.
Water damage restoration costs that are not covered by standard homeowners' insurance
Negligence by homeowners that results in water damage will not be covered by home insurance. This includes not turning on the heat during winter causing pipes to freeze and burst. Leaving maintenance work on plumbing and appliances unattended for long causes leaks and water damage that the insurance company can deny paying for.
Sewer backups are usually not covered in standard insurance policies. But a sewage backup rider can be purchased for such incidents.
Floods that cause water damage are covered by a flood insurance policy that must be purchased separately. This can be done through a private insurance company or the National Flood Insurance Program.
Leaks in the foundation and seepage through it.
Mold growth that is due to negligence by homeowners is not paid for by insurance. Mold removal is covered by insurance if it resulted from water damage due to an accidental cause like an AC system overflow or burst pipes. This mold damage is considered a progression of accidental and sudden water damage.
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Insurance companies prefer that professionals in the area carry out water damage restoration. Homeowners can choose a local company that suits their budget and offers quality service. Delay in water damage restoration can worsen the extent of the damage. Any additional cost caused by delayed water damage repair can be denied by the insurance company. To ensure the process is quick and thorough, homeowners are better off choosing a professional water damage restoration company. Emergency Relief Pros offers residential and commercial water damage restoration services in Illinois including in the Village of Lake in the Hills, IL. As independent restorers, they work with insurance companies in the best interests of homeowners. Emergency Relief Pros has a Level 3 Xactimate Certification that ensures a smooth claims process, maximizes insurance benefits, and keeps out-of-pocket expenditure minimal. They can be contacted at (847) 282-0302.
