How To File a Successful Water Damage Claim

6/24/2020 (Permalink)

Filing a water damage claim.

Bursting pipes and overflowing washers can expel a lot of water in a short amount of time. When these things happen to your home in West Valley City, UT, you need the services of water cleanup specialists and a successful insurance claim to pay for them. Here are some tips on filing a water damage claim.

3 Tips to Filing a Water Damage Claim

Type of Damage

Homeowner's insurance is designed to protect you in the event of an accident. There are many flooding incidents that are likely to be covered:

• Broken pipes
  
• Overflowing toilets or sinks
  
• Broken appliances
  

While your policy may not pay for a plumber to fix a broken pipe, it probably will cover the cost of repairing the damage the leak causes.

Timing of Event

Bursting pipes are often covered because they are sudden occurrences. Claims for damages resulting from a pipe that has been leaking under your sink or a crumbling and neglected foundation are more likely to be denied. Most insurance providers are hesitant to cover problems that could have been avoided with more diligent attention.

Updates on Policy

It's important to understand what your insurance covers before you need it. Once an incident occurs, it's too late to buy a policy to protect you. Your insurance provider should be able to explain what kind of water damage is covered under your homeowner's policy and what gaps exist. From that point, you can decide if you need extra protection, such as a mold endorsement or a separate flood policy. Always ask questions if you are unsure about what a clause in your policy means. You have the right to know how your home is protected, and the more comprehensive your coverage, the more likely your claim is to be accepted.

There are several factors that influence the success of your insurance claim for damage caused by bursting pipes. Knowing what your policy covers and giving all the pertinent details about the event improve your odds.