Water damage claims are among the most common types of insurance claims, impacting 2 percent of homeowners in the United States each year. With that in mind, it’s important to understand what kind of water damage is covered by homeowners insurance in Corydon, IN.
Types of water damage
Water damage is usually either accidental and sudden, or it can be gradual. Examples of sudden water damage include flooding, sewer backup, overflow and accidental discharge. Gradual damage occurs slowly over time, typically due to lack of maintenance. Examples include leaky pipes causing structural damage, water seeping through cracks in the foundation and a leaky, deteriorating roof.
Water damage that’s covered by home insurance
Whether a particular instance of water damage is covered by homeowners insurance will depend on the source of the damage, as well as the type of policy you have. Gradual water damage is not typically covered by homeowners insurance, so it’s best to review the exact details of your policy and any exclusions it may have with your insurance advisor, agent or broker.
It’s also important to keep in mind that resulting damage is treated separately from the initial damage. While the cause of the damage might not be covered, the resulting damage could be. For example, your insurance policy might not cover broken pipes, but it does cover water damage that results from broken pipes. Understanding these subtle differences will help you get compensated for as much of the damage as possible.
How to make sure your water damage claim is approved
The best way to ensure that a future water damage claim will be approved is to be proactive. Purchase the best insurance that’s suitable for your needs, including any extra coverages that might be relevant to your situation. Make sure you understand everything that is and isn’t covered by your policy, as well as what your responsibilities are as a homeowner. Get in the habit of regularly maintaining your home. If you’re on the lookout for small repairs that can be tackled, you might be able to avoid bigger expenses further down the road. Keep detailed records of these repairs, as well as any professionals you may have hired.
If your insurance claim is denied, be sure to ask for a full explanation. You are entitled to know the exact basis of why your claim was denied, which is normally communicated in writing to inform you of the official decision. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and for clarifications. Consult your insurance agent or representative for their expertise to help you understand what options are available to you.
Do you need homeowners insurance in Corydon, IN? Harvey Sarles Insurance Agency has been serving the community for more than 30 years, providing customized policies for all the things in your life that are worth protecting. When you put your trust in us, you can have peace of mind in your insurance coverage. Contact us today to meet with us and discuss your available policy options and get a quote!