What To Do If Your Property Sustains Water Damage
Water Damage is generally covered under a homeowners insurance policy, but the way the claim is made and described has a significant affect on whether the insurance company accepts the claim. In other words, water damage is typically covered, but flood damage is typically not covered. If you approach your insurance company and tell them that you are making a claim related to water damage, but describe the damage as flood damage, your claim will likely be denied. On the other hand, if you contact an attorney or a public adjuster and they determine that your water damage is water retention or wind retention damage, your insurance company is unlikely to deny your claim based upon a flood exclusion. If you have water damage to your home:
- Discuss your potential claim with an attorney;
- Indicate any pressing repairs needed at your property.
- If left for too long, water damage can leave your home susceptible to further damage;
- Be sure to document any expenses incurred from temporary repairs;
- Take photographs of any damage and gather before and after photos if they exists.
- Consider hiring a public adjuster or damage assessment expert to assess the conditions of the damage.
- Be aware that this type of damage can lead to subsequent damages to doors, walls, windows, appliances, and other structural issues.
As always, if your property was damaged by Hurricane Ian or Nicole, please call Quattrochi, Torres and Taormina for a free consultation.