Your Guide to Water Damage Insurance Coverage: What’s Covered & What’s Not

One of the most common and costly issues homeowners experience is water damage. No matter the cause, the devastating aftermath is undeniable. From burst pipes to roof leaks, water can quickly turn your home into an absolute mess, requiring days or weeks of repairs and Tampa water damage restoration. On a more positive note, water damage insurance coverage includes many different types of water damage, but there are also exclusions that homeowners need to know.

Water Damage Insurance Coverage: How Much Will You Be Compensated?

Let’s take a look at what causes of water damage are typically covered by insurance and what the limitations are.

What’s Typically Covered by Homeowners Insurance?

Most standard homeowners insurance policies cover sudden and accidental water damage, meaning that the event causing the damage was unexpected and happened quickly. Some examples of covered water damage include:

• Burst Pipes: If a pipe suddenly bursts due to freezing or pressure, resulting in water damage is typically covered.
• Roof Leaks: If a storm or falling tree damages your roof, introducing water into your home along the way, the insurance often covers the resulting damage.
• Appliance Malfunctions: If your washing machine or dishwasher fails and causes water damage, your policy may cover the repairs and restoration.
• Rain Damage: If water enters your home due to a sudden storm, the damage might be covered, depending on your policy.

However, it’s important to remember that coverage applies only to sudden, unforeseen events. You’ll also need to file a claim straightaway and document the damage thoroughly to receive proper coverage.

What’s Not Covered by Homeowners Insurance?

While homeowners insurance provides protection for many water damage scenarios, there are specific exclusions that policyholders should keep in mind to avoid surprises if disaster strikes:

1. Gradual Damage or Neglect: Water damage caused by neglect or gradual wear and tear, such as a slow, undetected leak, is typically excluded. For example, if you ignore signs of water damage for months and it leads to significant damage, your insurance is unlikely to cover it.
2. Flood Damage: Standard homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage. For this type of protection, you’ll need a separate flood insurance policy through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or a private insurer.
3. Sewer Backups: Water damage resulting from sewer or drain backups is not a part of a standard insurance policy unless you have purchased additional coverage, sometimes called a “water backup rider.”
4. Poor Maintenance: Insurance won’t cover any damage caused by lack of maintenance, such as clogged gutters or a poorly sealed roof. Insurance companies expect homeowners to take reasonable measures to prevent damage.

How Chris' Carpet Service & Water Restoration Can Help

Navigating water damage restoration and insurance claims can be stressful, but Chris' Carpet Service & Water Restoration is here to help homeowners in the Tampa Bay Area deal with all the emergency steps for water damage. Our experienced team specializes in:

• Documenting Damage: We assist in thoroughly documenting the damage to ensure your insurance claim is precise and comprehensive.
• Working with Insurance Companies: Our team specializes in working with insurance adjusters, advocating for the full coverage you deserve.
• Water Extraction and Restoration: From removing standing water to drying and restoring your property, they handle the entire restoration process with professionalism and care.
• Expert Damage Control: Our team quickly mitigates issues to prevent mold growth and further structural damage.
• Stress-Free Recovery: We manage the restoration process and navigate insurance claims, so you can focus on bringing your home back to its original comfort.

Contact Us Today For Your Water Damage Concerns

If you’ve experienced water damage, don’t wait to take action. Contact Chris' Carpet Service & Water Restoration at (727) 888-5111 for expert water damage restoration and insurance claim assistance or fill out this form for a free quote. Our team is ready to step in immediately to help homeowners in the Tampa Bay Area get back on their feet!