What Is Covered In A Water Damage Claim

Written by admin on January 19, 2023 at 4:51 PM.

Water damage can be a devastating event for any homeowner. In Miami, the threat of flooding and severe storms can make this damage even more likely. When making a water damage claim, it’s essential to understand what is and isn’t covered by your insurance policy. In this article, we’ll take a look at the types of damage that are typically covered by a Miami water damage claim, as well as those that may not be covered. By understanding what your policy covers, you can be better prepared in the event of an emergency and know what to expect when filing a claim.

Types of Water Damage Covered by Homeowners Insurance

As a rule of thumb, the water damage that is considered “sudden and accidental” will be covered. That means most types of water damage not the result of negligence on the homeowner’s part tend to be covered.

• Burst pipes: Damage caused by a burst or broken pipe is typically covered by homeowners insurance policies. This includes the cost of repairs to the line itself and any damage caused to your home or personal property as a result of the burst pipe.
• Malfunctioning appliances: If an appliance, such as a washing machine or dishwasher, malfunctions and causes water damage to your home, the cost of repairs and any resulting damage would typically be covered by homeowners insurance.
• Heavy rain: If heavy rain causes water to enter your home, resulting in damage, this would typically be covered by homeowners insurance. This includes damage caused by overflowing gutters, a leaky roof, or water entering through windows or doors.
• Accidental water leaks: If an accidental water leak, such as a water heater or supply line break, causes damage to your home and personal property, this would typically be covered by homeowners insurance.
• Water damage after a fire: One may not think of fire accidents at the top of the list when they think about water damage. However, the water used to extinguish the flames, such as water from a sprinkler system or a hose from the fire department, can cause property damage as well.
• Additional living expenses: If you are forced to relocate temporarily as a result of water damage to your home, your homeowners insurance policy may cover other living expenses, such as the cost of a hotel or rental property.

These are some of the most common types of Miami water damage experienced by South Florida residents. Let’s take a look at some that insurance companies are unwilling to cover.

Types of Water Damage Not Covered by Homeowners Insurance

It’s important to note that these types of damage may have exclusions or limitations in your insurance policy. You should review your homeowners policy and understand what is covered and what isn’t. Below is a list of types of water damage that are typically not covered by homeowners insurance policies:

• Flooding: Damage caused by flooding is typically not covered by standard homeowners insurance policies. Instead, you would need to purchase a separate flood insurance policy to be protected from flood damage.
• Gradual leaks or seepage: Damage caused by gradual leaks or seepage over time is not typically covered by homeowners insurance. This type of damage is considered to be caused by lack of maintenance and is the homeowner’s responsibility.
• Mold damage: Many homeowners insurance policies exclude mold damage coverage or limit the amount of coverage provided. Mold growth is considered gradual and therefore looked at by insurance companies as lack of maintenance or failure to act on the part of the insured.
• Damage caused by lack of maintenance: Insurance companies consider the damage caused by lack of maintenance preventable; this means that is the homeowner’s responsibility.
• Certain types of property or materials: Some insurance companies may have exclusions or limitations on coverage for certain types of property or materials. For example, some policies may exclude coverage for certain types of flooring or other materials.

Now that you’re familiar with the typical exclusions, let’s look at some preventative measures to prevent Miami water damage.

Protect Your South Florida Home From Water Damage

It’s important to take steps to protect your home from potential water damage. Below are some tips on how you:

• Regularly maintain appliances and pipes: Regularly inspecting and maintaining appliances and pipes in your home can help prevent water damage caused by leaks or malfunctions. This includes checking for signs of wear and tear, such as rust or corrosion, and making repairs as necessary.
• Keep gutters and downspouts clear: Clogged gutters and downspouts can cause water to overflow and enter your home, resulting in damage. Make sure to regularly clean out your gutters and downspouts to prevent this from happening.
• Check for leaks: Regularly check for leaks in your home, including around your windows, doors, and in your attic. If you find a roof leak or anything along those lines, address it as soon as possible to prevent damage from occurring.
• Install a water alarm: Water alarms detect leaks and alert you to the presence of water. They can be placed in areas prone to leaks, such as near appliances or under sinks.
• Check your insurance coverage: Review your homeowners insurance policy to make sure you understand what is and isn’t covered in the event of water damage. It’s also a good idea to consider purchasing additional coverage, such as flood insurance, if you live in an area of South Florida prone to flooding.
• Fix any structural damage and issues: Be aware of any structural issues in your home that may make it more susceptible to water damage. For example, a poorly graded yard can lead to water pooling near your foundation, or a flat roof can retain water. Addressing these issues can help prevent water damage from occurring.
• Keep an emergency kit: In the event of water damage, it’s important to have an emergency kit on hand. This should include items such as a flashlight, water, non-perishable food, a first-aid kit, and important documents such as your insurance policy and identification.
• Be prepared for severe weather: If you live in an area prone to severe weather, such as hurricanes or heavy rain, it’s important to take steps to protect your home in advance. This can include installing storm shutters, reinforcing your roof, and having sandbags on hand to help protect your home from flooding.

By taking steps to protect your home from water damage, you can help reduce the risk of damage occurring and ensure you are prepared in the event it does. Remember to regularly check for leaks, maintain your appliances and pipes, and be prepared for severe weather. Also, review your insurance coverage and consider purchasing additional coverage, such as flood insurance, if you live in an area prone to flooding.

Always Contact Stellar Public Adjusters When FIling Your Miami Water Damage Claim

When it comes to filing a water damage insurance claim in Florida, it’s essential to understand that you have options regarding representation. Stellar Public Adjuster are professionals who advocate for policyholders, like yourself, in the claims process. We can help ensure that your claim is handled fairly and that you receive the maximum settlement possible.

Here are a few reasons why you may want to consider working with a public adjuster when filing a water damage claim in Florida:

• Knowledge of the claims process: Stellar Public Adjusters are experts in the claims process and are familiar with the ins and outs of how insurance companies operate. We know what documentation is required and what to expect from the insurance company. We can guide you through the process and help ensure that your claim is handled in a timely and efficient manner.
• Experience in negotiations: We are skilled negotiators who understand how to get the best settlement possible for their clients. We can help you navigate the insurance company’s settlement offer and negotiate a better deal on your behalf.
• Independent representation: Stellar Public Adjusters works for you, not the insurance company. We are not tied to the insurance provider and can therefore provide you with an unbiased assessment of your claim. We can help you make an informed decision about whether to accept an offer or to negotiate further.
• Maximize your claim: Stellar Public Adjusters can help ensure that all damages are identified and properly documented, we know what coverage applies to your case, and we can make sure that all damages are included in the claim. We can also help you document additional living expenses and other costs incurred because of the damage.
• Save Time: We can take care of the paperwork and the communication with the insurance company, while you take care of your life and the repair of your property.

It’s important to note that public adjusters are not employees of the insurance carrier, unlike insurance adjusters, and we get paid by a percentage of the final settlement, so our incentives are aligned with the policyholder’s best interest.

If you are filing a water damage claim in Florida, working with a public adjuster can be a wise decision. We can provide you with the knowledge, experience, and representation you need to navigate the claims process and ensure that you receive a fair and maximum settlement. Contacting Stellar Public Adjusters can provide you peace of mind, knowing that you have an expert on your side working to protect your rights and interests.