Things to know regarding water damage claims

One of the most common claims that an insured can report on a property policy is damage from water. This damage to property can come as a result from different causes such as a rain storm, sewage backup, plumbing leaks, etc.



It is a typical perception by insured’s that regardless of the situation Insurance companies should pay for damages as a result of the loss. It is important to understand that this may not be the case do to the fact that the peril of "Water Damage" specifically covers losses that are "Sudden and Incidental." In other words, the damage or loss must have occurred and reported to the company in a relatively short period of time.



For example, you notice a musty smell under your sink, you open the doors move aside all the contents and notice the base of the cabinet is soggy, walls are discolored and a pipe under a sink is dripping. The discoloration of the walls, soggy or spongy wood typically signals that the drip has been going on for some time. It is highly unlikely that a situation like this could have occurred within days of noticing. The more likely scenario is that the leak was ongoing and that it permeated the wood and walls for some time.



The likely hood that the Insurance Company’s inspector or adjuster would approve payment on the above scenario is very rare. Furthermore it may complicate the matter further by requiring the insured to provide proof of repair to avoid future cancellations.



Another common claim that may not be honored is one involving water leaks entering through roofing. Say your city had a rainstorm that caused water to seep through the roof, damaging the ceiling drywall and flooring in the premises. You file a claim, the inspector arrives at your premises observes the reported damage, proceeds to the roof and makes observations. Several days later you receive notice that the claim is being refused do to wear and tear.



If your roof shows uneven leveling, bubbling or raised tiles your roof needs repairing. If a roof is not in "acceptable" condition most claims that are a result of that again will most likely be denied.



So you may be asking, how can I assure myself that water damage is covered?



The following are certain things you should do to eliminate the possibility of an insurance company refusing to pay a legitimate claim.



1. Have your plumbing inspected regularly. If you notice any moisture or dripping, act quickly to resolve the problem. If you have Galvanized pipes, it is highly recommended you replace them with copper pipes.

2. It is a good practice to inspect a roof after rainstorms or at least once a year. If the roof is more that 15 years old, a roofing contractor should inspect it and make repair or make replacement as need be.

3. All windows and doors should have the proper weathering materials in place. Silicone should be used in all areas that may possess the potential of water seeping in. T Astragals should be inspected insuring double doors are snug.

4. The surrounding of Chimneys, Vents, and fans should all have proper covering that meet weathering and building standards. A roofer should be used to determine this for you.

5. Gutters should be routinely cleaned to avoid backup of water overflowing into your properties fascia. Also branches of trees should be trimmed back avoiding build up in the gutters



Water Damage claims can be a tremendous burden in many cases causing extensive damage. It is important that you maintain your property, be observant of any potential hazards that can lead to a claim and always review your policy Insurance Broker.



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