When you buy insurance for your Orlando home, it usually covers water damage but not flood damage, so you need to understand the difference between the two. Floods are natural phenomena that affect a widespread area and many homes located there. On the other hand, water damage is specific to your home and may be caused by pipe bursts or leaks in plumbing, heating, ventilation, or air conditioning.
It is essential to select the right homeowners’ insurance policy and understand inclusions and exclusions.
Gradual water damage is not covered.
You should also be aware that gradual water damage is generally not included in the coverage provided by most standard homeowners insurance policies. So water damage linked to causes that you could either not detect or you neglected will not be compensated by your insurer. Claims are denied if the insurance company finds evidence that you did not maintain or repair your home as expected. Specifically, water damage linked to mold, rot, or corrosion, plumbing leaks that developed over a long time, roof damage that caused water to enter your home, cracks in the exterior, or seepage from the foundation may be considered to be gradual.
So you will need to show that the water damage was unexpected or accidental when you submit your insurance claim.
Maintaining your home in Orlando well is also necessary because if you file more than two water damage claims, there is a chance that your insurance provider may not renew your policy. When you have to shop around for a new provider, your premium is likely to be higher.
The nature of water damage
Water can cause extensive and costly damage to your home’s structure, furnishings, and possessions. It can lead to health hazards due to water contamination or the growth of mold. When you notice any water damage, whether minor or major, you need to take prompt action. It is best to call Experienced Public Adjusters in Orlando right away so that all the steps needed to file a claim correctly can be followed. We have the technical expertise to estimate water damage that may not be visible on the surface. We review your insurance policy thoroughly to understand the nature of your coverage and ensure you get what is due to you.
Reasons why a water damage claim may be denied or inadequate
Water damage claims can be quite complex, and your insurer may even deny your claim altogether. This usually happens due to one of the following reasons.
- Disagreement about the cost of repair: The Insurance provider may estimate the cost of repair or replacement of various items required to restore your home to the pre-loss condition lower than the actual cost to you.
- Poor maintenance: The insurer will investigate whether there was any lapse on your part in maintaining your home. If your plumbing or roof was not maintained or repaired when necessary and allowed water to enter your home, then your claim may be denied. For this reason, it is important to maintain your home regularly, have it reviewed by professionals, and also keep a record of such preventive maintenance.
When you need to file a water damage claim for your Orlando home, trust Experienced Public Adjusters to manage the entire process – right from filling the claim form till the time that you receive your settlement check. Our experience with helping hundreds of homeowners like you to get the best possible settlement will prove valuable support to you at this difficult time.