Homeowner Insurance Tips for Water Damage Coverage in Spokane

9/23/2016 (Permalink)

Water damaged ceiling needs professional repair and restoration.

Water damage coverage in a homeowner’s insurance policy, and even renter insurance, has changed over the years. It is helpful to review your policy annually, to understand what is covered and what may have changed from previous years.

Normally, these conditions would be covered by an insurance policy.

• Burst water pipes and water heaters
• Sudden or accidental overflow of a toilet, tub, or sink
• Sewer backup from drains and sump pumps (there may be a relatively low policy limit)

Most existing homeowner policies probably don’t cover the following conditions:

• Ground flooding
• Slow, dripping leaks
• Overflowing streams or rivers 

Regular maintenance is required for a roof, such as replacing shingles or tiles and keeping the roof cleared from debris, and this regular upkeep is a determining factor in insurance claims. However, inside content damage from a roof leak might be covered by your policy.

Slow, dripping leaks, such as those from an incorrectly installed toilet, sink, shower or bathtub are usually not covered. Whenever something is considered maintenance-related, chances are the insurance expects that you properly maintain your dwelling.

Flood damage from an overflowing river or nearby body of water might be covered, depending on the area where you live. Homeowner policies have changed greatly over the years, especially if the property is located on or near a water table. An additional flood insurance policy is usually required, because a normal homeowner policy will not cover damages resulting from a flood of this type.

Usually, an insurance investigator will determine if the water damage is a result of negligence or lack of maintenance. After they ask you questions about the problem, they usually schedule an appointment at your home to physically inspect the damage and where it originated from.

If you have sudden water damage, call SERVPRO of Spokane County, we can assist with coordinating the insurance claim, and when the underlying cause is proven to be insurance-related, we will work with the adjuster for inspections, proper repairs, and restoring your home again. SERVPRO of Spokane County staff knows how to handle insurance claims and perform the repairs needed on your home.