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Many people make the mistake of assuming that their insurance policies cover all kinds of damage done to their home. However, in many cases, there is fine print in your policy that will allow insurance companies out of their contracts with you if the event, disaster or situation does not match up with the plan.
When Will Insurance Cover Your Water Damage Claim?
Most of the time, insurance companies will cover your water damage claim if the damage is “sudden and internal.” This means that the loss must be the result of one of the 16 perils commonly affecting homes.
Some of the damages your homeowner's insurance will cover include:
Rain, wind, hail or snow storm
Weight of ice snow or sleet on your home
Plumbing: Burst pipes, faulty plumbing, frozen pipes, accidental overflow
Water damage from extinguishing a fire
A leaking roof (coverage would extend only to the home interior, not the roof itself because of the “internal” requirement)
An accidental overflow of an appliance or fixture (toilet, washing machine, bathtub)
Mold (only when it’s the result of covered water damage)
Vandalism
When Will Insurance Not Cover Your Water Damage Claim?
There are some instances where your home insurance won’t cover the cost of your water damage, for example, if it is not the result of an accident or a sudden occurrence. If water damage in your home is the result of neglect or lack of maintenance, then you will be responsible for covering the costs.
Ground seepage
Water or sewer pipe backups
Poorly-maintained pipes leading to leaks
Flooding (for flood insurance you’ll have to purchase a separate policy, especially if you live in an area especially prone to flooding).
The important thing to remember after your home is impacted by water damage is to call a water damage restoration company immediately along with your insurance company. Make sure to take photos to document the situation and the damage so that you can prove the extent of the damage to your insurer.
For all of your questions about water damage and what to do after it happens, contact the water damage restoration experts at W.B. Arthur!