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Things to know before filing a water damage claim

Water damage is one of the most common home insurance claims as even a small pipe or faucet leak causes massive damage to property, and repairs can be expensive. Further, if left unchecked, the moisture can weaken the structure, making it difficult to sell the property in the future. So, it is imperative to know the extent of damage covered by your insurance company and what should you do while filing a water damage claim:

What is covered under water damage insurance?
Usually, sudden and accidental water damage is covered under home insurance. This includes:

Burst pipes: Frozen pipes can burst and cause waterlogging; this can be covered by insurance.
Damage from storms: Heavy rains or hail storms are one of the common contributors to water damage.
Ice dams: Ice accumulates on the roof or the gutter of the house, forming dams. The melted water can seep into the roof and can cause water damage. However, if the issue develops due to poor maintenance, the water damage claim may not be denied.
Accidental leaks: This covers leakage caused by the washing machine or dishwasher.
Sudden roof leaks: During a storm or heavy rain, if a tree falls on the roof of the house, it could let water into the house and inflict damage.
Water damage after fire: Damage caused by water sprinklers or a hose to extinguish the fire can be covered by the insurance provider.

Individual policies should be studied to understand the specific coverage offered by your insurance company. A comprehensive home insurance policy may cover other kinds of damages apart from the ones listed above.

Tips for filing a water damage claim
Homeowners must take adequate care of their property to prevent avoidable issues, even if their homes are insured. A well-maintained property can withstand disasters and keep the owners and their belongings safe. Further, such a property can fetch better rent and sale price and would need minimal repairs before being placed on the market. So here are a few tips to follow while filing a water damage claim:

Don’t ignore minor issues: Faucet or sink leaks may appear to be minor problems, but if left unchecked, the moisture can creep into the walls and the roof/ceiling, inviting mold or fungus and even infection-carrying bacteria and viruses. Other problems that may seem insignificant include rusty pipes, tiny leaks in the basement, mold, or mildew; however, all these issues could indicate potential water damage.

Implement damage control: When you notice water damage and decide to file a claim, it is important to document the damage by taking pictures and videos. However, once a water damage claim is filed, you should not wait for the insurance company to fix the damage. Take control of the situation and prevent further damage to the property. For instance, if a tree falls onto a roof, homeowners should fix the roof to avoid heavy water damage inside the house. The insurance company may not cover additional damage beyond the roof leak. Further, small leaks and rusty pipes should be repaired quickly as gradual damage due to lack of maintenance may not be covered under your insurance policy.

Seek professional help: Don’t skimp on repairs, as the structural strength of the home should be restored. Professional restoration teams guide homeowners and evaluate potential risks of water damage. For instance, a leak could ruin an entire wall, ceiling, or floor and would require a bigger water damage claim and extensive damage control. Professional restoration contractors can address the root cause and fix the problem to avoid further damage to the property.

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