Differences between water damage and flood damage. We all strive to protect our homes from various risks that could affect them. If you live in Florida, even though the law doesn’t require it, you know that you can’t afford not to have homeowner’s insurance. Hurricanes, floods, and water leaks – these are common occurrences.
To safeguard your home without breaking the bank, it’s essential to understand the differences between water damage and flood damage as they appear in your policy. Often, these terms are used interchangeably, but they carry distinct implications and coverages.
Water Damage:
Water damage in homeowner’s insurance typically refers to internal damage caused by issues with your plumbing, piping system, or appliances like washing machines and dishwashers. These issues can include leaks, bursts, or overflows. Generally, homeowner’s insurance tends to cover these types of damages, but it’s crucial to check the specifics of your policy.
Flood Damage:
On the other hand, flood damage is caused by accumulated water outside your home, resulting from heavy rainfall, river overflows, tropical storms, or hurricanes. It’s important to note that most standard homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover flood damages. To get flood coverage, you must purchase a flood insurance policy backed by the federal government through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or a private insurance company.
In simpler terms, most homeowner’s insurance policies only cover water damage. When it comes to making a claim, here are the steps to follow:
- You must notify your homeowner’s insurance company as soon as you discover the damage.
- Document it with photographs and videos.
- Repair the damage and keep records of expenses related to repair and replacement.
- You’ll need to collaborate with your insurance company’s adjuster to assess the damages and determine coverage.
To prevent water damage, consider installing leak detection devices and regularly check the condition of your pipes and appliances. Leak detection devices can alert you to unexpected water loss, enabling swift action to prevent costly damages. You can place them behind the dishwasher, the air conditioning tray, or the refrigerator.
Understanding the distinctions between water damage and flood damage in your homeowner’s insurance is crucial. Please ensure you have the right coverage and follow prevention practices, such as installing leak detection devices, to protect your most significant investment.
Remember that at Univista Insurance, you can obtain very affordable homeowner’s insurance. Differences between water damage and flood damage.
Give us a call today for a comprehensive assessment! (305) 267-7138. You can also get a free quote here.
