Whether it’s a burst pipe, a leaky roof, or a malfunctioning dishwasher, at some point most homeowners find themselves dealing with water damage to their home.
Most homeowners insurance policies cover sudden and accidental water damage. That includes any damage done to your home’s structure, personal belongings, and other structures on the property. But what does your insurance company want you to know about this common household issue?
A recent article from realtor.com outlined some of the top things insurance companies want homeowners to know about water damage, including:
- Water damage is extremely common. Insurance companies get all sorts of claims. But according to the article, claims related to water damage are more common than most. For example, one of the insurance professionals featured in the article said that about 50% of the claims homeowners filed with their company in 2021 were related to water damage claims.
- It can get expensive. Water damage may be common yet it can also be expensive. According to the article, the average cost to repair water damage ranges from $1200 on the lower end of the spectrum to a whopping $5000 on the higher end.
- There are ways to prevent water damage. As a homeowner, there are steps you can take to prevent water damage. You want to avoid the hefty price tag that goes along with it. To avoid roof leaks, make sure to regularly inspect and clean your roof. Also, clean & inspect your gutters. To avoid frozen pipes, make sure to keep your thermostat above 65 degrees during the winter months. And If you have appliances that use water (like a washing machine or dishwasher), make sure to get them regularly serviced.
- Call your current insurance company and speak to them about their coverage. Make sure you have the coverage you want.
Give us a call if you want to know more about our LOCAL independent insurance agencies in the Gainesville area.