What Types of Water Damage Are Covered By Your Homeowners Insurance?

7/28/2022 (Permalink)

Water damage in a home in Mehlville, MO.

Which Water Damage Types Are Covered by Your Homeowners Insurance?

If a flood has occurred in your Mehlville, MO, home as the result of a broken pipe or appliance, then you will need to file an insurance claim to cover repairs. Because these can be costly, you may be wondering exactly what is included in your insurance policy. The following are a few types of damage that you might be dealing with.

1. Initial Damage

Initial damage occurs immediately after the pipe or appliance is broken, as soon as the water enters the home. This can include damage to a variety of items, such as electronics, furniture or paper items. This is almost always included in your insurance coverage, as long as the cause was not preventable.

2. Secondary Damage

Secondary damage that occurs due to the flood in your home is often included as well, as long as mitigation and repairs were performed in a reasonable time. This can include structural damage such as rotting or warped wood as well as the growth of mold and mildew.

3. Gradual Damage

If the pipe has not broken suddenly and instead caused damage through a persistent leak, then this is considered gradual damage and will likely not be included in your insurance policy. Because it is expected that the homeowner will perform proper maintenance, if you have noticed a leak and not bothered to have it repaired or you have not done regular inspections, then the insurance company may determine you are at fault.

4. Broken Pipes

Even if it was sudden and accidental, the insurance company will usually not cover the costs to fix broken pipes. This is generally seen as normal maintenance for the home, so you, as the homeowner, will more than likely be responsible for any necessary repairs or replacements.
To prevent the damage from getting worse, excessive water should be removed from your home immediately. A water damage remediation company can help fix the source of the flood, make repairs on your home, and salvage many of your belongings. Luckily, your insurance will likely cover most of the costs.