Water damage is one of the biggest reasons for insurance claims in Texas. Homeowners must ensure that their policies have adequate coverage to protect them from any water damage to their homes in Texas.
However, policies are complicated, and there are multiple types of insurance policies issued in the state that may or may not contain water damage coverage. Every insurer has different terms and conditions regarding what is and is not covered and how claims are settled.
If you’ve experienced significant water damage, you should hire experienced public insurance adjusters in Texas who can help you go over your policy, understand your coverage and file a subsequent claim with an insurer. That said, here’s a comprehensive guide to water damage insurance coverage and claims in Texas.
Water Damage Coverage
As mentioned, there are multiple types of homeowner’s insurance policies issued by several providers in Texas. Every insurer includes different clauses and terms that determine the extent of water damage that is insured. However, there are some conditions you’d find consistently in every policy throughout the state.
The coverage item commonly included in every water damage insurance policy in Texas is the “sudden and accidental discharge of water or steam” in your home. Now, this is a very broad concept and needs further elaboration on what is and is not covered in your insurance policy.
Sudden and accidental discharge can cover anything from a broken pipe to a malfunctioning appliance, such as a washing machine that inundates your home with water and causes serious damage.
Water heaters are quite notorious for being the cause of extensive water leaks. Frozen pipes due to winter storms and hail are also covered under the accidental water damage insurance stipulation. However, if you switched off the heat when leaving the house for a considerable time which led to the pipes being frozen, your claim might be denied.
Another common water damage that can be claimed under your policy is water damage resulting due to a storm where water has come through a roof leak in your home. It is important to note that water damage insurance will only cover damage due to an accident and should have occurred without prior warnings. The policy will not cover any damage due to the policyholder’s negligence.
Water Damage Not Covered
As homeowners, you should always be prepared for the worst and understand the conditions not commonly entertained when filing a water damage insurance claim.
Slow leaks are perhaps one of the biggest causes of concern that may lead to widespread damage to your home. These are usually not covered by insurers across the state. A burst pipe due to a hailstorm or any other unwanted incident is sudden and noticeable. You’ll be able to control the situation, minimize the damage and file a prompt claim with your insurer.
But the real problem starts when a pipe in your spare bathroom or shed that you don’t use frequently suddenly starts dripping, and you don’t notice it for a considerable time. The damage will be slow but extensive and can cause massive issues for the structural integrity of your home.
These slow leaks, often left undetected by homeowners, are not covered by standard insurance policies. You must get an optional endorsement on your water damage insurance coverage that covers these situations. In addition, these losses can be problematic because they can develop mold over time, which can be quite expensive to repair.
As a homeowner, you should carefully read your standard policy and determine the coverage you receive. After that, you should get extended coverage that provides complete protection from water damage. Make sure to have foundational water coverage, seepage & leakage of slow leaks, and water or sewer backup.
Other Things to Keep in Mind
Water coverage can become complicated depending on the policy you hold. An open peril HO-3 policy will include additional water damage insurance called “Wind Driven Rain.” In the event of strong winds and rain, water can enter sideways, get underneath, and drip inside your home.
This can cause significant damage, and it is strictly due to the wind causing rain to enter unusually. If you’re on a named peril policy such as the HO-A, HO-B, DP-1, or others, they won’t cover this type of damage. So it is important to understand what is covered and what is not.
Working With a Public Insurance Adjuster
As mentioned, there are various insurance policies containing different terms and conditions. Before filing an insurance claim, you should speak to your public adjuster to see what you are entitled to receive.
If your property has suffered from extensive damages and you want to file a water damage insurance claim, get the help of an experienced public insurance adjuster in Texas. If you’re looking for one, you can’t go wrong with Morgan Elite Specialist Services
We are experienced residential insurance adjusters in Texas that have extensive knowledge of local insurance policies and can help you with all your water damage claims.
Whether you’re looking for an insurance appraiser, damage consultant, or public adjuster for your claim, we can help. Report a claim now or contact us today for more details.