Is water damage caused by snow covered by insurance?

Home problems during winter

Can insurance cover home issues due to water damage brought about by the winter season? (Photo Credits)

The water damage caused by snow can be quite extensive in some homes. More often than not, the succeeding question is if the damage can be covered by home insurance.

The Insurance Information Institute has enumerated what is covered by standard home insurance, to at least inform policy holders about what they can claim, and what they cannot. 24hr Water Damage Repair San Diego CA

“Standard homeowners insurance covers: (1) Wind-related damage to a house, its roof, its contents and other insured structures on the property. Also, wind-driven snow or freezing rain that gets into the home because the home was damaged by wind. (2) Tree limbs that fall on a house or other insured structure on the property—this includes both the damage the tree inflicts on the house, and the cost of removing the tree, generally up to about $500. (3) Damage from ice and other objects that fall on the home.”

Read the rest of the coverage items here.

What is covered?

The National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) also shared comprehensive information for property owners in relation to their home insurance. According o the NAIC, winter water damage as it is one of the usual inquiries to them.

“Damage caused by wind, wind-driven rain, trees or other falling objects, and the collapse of a structure due to weight of ice or snow are all covered under most standard homeowners policies. Frozen pipes as the result of extreme cold might not be covered if the damage is due to negligence, such as failing to maintain an adequate temperature in the house when the ability to do so is there.”

The FAQ Page can be printed from here.

Brewing Concern

The website TheBalance.com encourages policy holders to immediately report water damage problems, including that which is still taking place, or about to occur so that the insurance company can extend assistance.

“Normally if you have damage happening, like water coming into your home, the insurance company can be really useful because as soon as they become alerted they may send an emergency crew out to help you prevent further damage. Take advantage of all the advice and services your insurance company can offer during a claim. You don’t need to go through the situation alone. In many cases, because of the insurer’s experience with claims, and the established relationships insurance companies have with emergency contractors and service providers, going through your insurance company will get you help immediately.”

Read the whole write-up here. 

Winter-related water damage can cost property owners a huge expense. It is important to be informed about what the insurance can and cannot cover during such incidents.

Signs of water damage in the kitchen

The post Is water damage caused by snow covered by insurance? appeared first on 24HR San Diego Water Damage Pro.