Water Damage Claim Coverage, and How To Maximize It

We all buy insurance hoping that we will never need it. So, what happens when you come home to find that a pipe burst, and you need to make a water damage insurance claim to fix the hardwood floors in your house?

One is covered by insurance, the other is not. Water damage is something that is covered in a typical home insurance plan, and it is important that you know if what you are asking for is covered by a water damage insurance claim.

Water damage is something that is extremely common, in fact, it is often pointed to as the most frequent type of damage reported by homeowners. Regardless of the cause of the water damage, whether it is from a frozen or broken pipe, a leaking appliance, a sewage backup, or problems caused by a leaky roof or rain, water damage is part and parcel of the insurance business.  Yet, it is also important to know the flooding damage is not something covered in a typical policy.

Flood damage is never covered under homeowner’s insurance, even if it was caused by a natural disaster. Flood insurance is a new development in the American insurance industry when it was introduced just over fifty years ago in 1968 with the National Flood Insurance Program.

You should determine if you need flood insurance before you buy it, so it is important to understand how insurance defines a flood. Your property and another property must be inundated with water, partially or completely, in an area of land that is usually dry. Any rising water or mud that occurs from runoff water, overflowing rivers, heavy rain, thawing snow, or hurricane storms counts as flood damage.

Since this type of damage is not subject to a water damage insurance claim, if you live in a region prone to these conditions, flood insurance might be a smart choice for you.

If you hesitate to report water damage to your insurance company, they may come back and deny your claim for preventable damages.

Insurance is just that: insurance. It covers unexpected catastrophes.  But, as the homeowner, you have a responsibility to take care of your property.  If you fail to report damage that occurs, then you could be considered neglectful.

Some insurance policies try to use language that prevents you from reporting damage more than 14 days after the incident that caused the damage. If you are away on a trip, or if you own a vacation home in a wet climate like Florida, you could be denied on a technicality. In that case, you should look into hiring a public adjuster : they specialize in maximizing insurance payouts for the claimant.

If you simply go with the restoration company recommended by your insurance company, they may not be paying for the care your home needs after a water damage insurance claim. If they are constrained by the budget from a small payout from insurance, they may not take the best care of your property.

It is necessary to treat for mold and mildew after water damage occurs, and to make sure that all moisture is removed. Inquire as to whether the cleaners use hygrometers, infrared cameras, moisture detectors or other equipment to make sure that all of the water damage is completely remediated.

If your disputed amount is over $10,000 then it is time to call in the help of a public adjuster. A public adjuster will help you through the claims process, and they do so for a portion of the settlement awarded at the end of the case.

You will likely only file an insurance claim a few times in your life if you are lucky, but public adjusters live in the insurance industry and fight for you, the homeowner, against the insurance companies that want to pay out as little as possible.

Whether your home was damaged by rain or you are filing a water damage insurance claim as a result of another disaster, like extinguishing a fire, make sure you have someone on your side who are experts in the business.

Why Choose Continental Public Adjusters?

Continental Public Adjusters takes great pride in serving the entire state of Florida, specializing in property claims. With our extensive experience, we are here to ensure you get the most from your insurance policy.

Whether you are dealing with a recent property claim or facing a denied, delayed, or underpaid claim, the need for an experienced public adjuster becomes paramount.

Here are five compelling reasons to partner with Continental Public Adjusters:

• Your Advocate: Our sole purpose is to secure the maximum compensation for your loss.

• Thorough Analysis: We conduct an exhaustive investigation, leaving no detail unexplored to understand the specifics of your loss. Our team of experts and consultants work tirelessly to determine the true value of your property loss.

• Accurate Estimation: Utilizing cutting-edge cost estimating software, we meticulously prepare comprehensive supporting documentation and promptly submit it to your insurance carrier.

• Skillful Negotiation: We expertly manage and negotiate your claim, working closely with your insurance company's adjuster to achieve a settlement that aligns with your best interests and meets your approval.

• Maximizing Benefits: With the wisdom gained from settling thousands of claims, we are adept at foreseeing potential issues and hurdles in the claims process. We work tirelessly to ensure you receive the maximum benefits you rightfully deserve.
  
  

Your journey with us begins with a free consultation with one of our seasoned team members. With 38 years of invaluable experience in successfully settling numerous claims, encompassing personal and commercial properties throughout Florida, Continental Public Adjusters, Inc. is the partner you can trust.

Contact us today at (800) 989-4769 or email us at info@contpa.com to initiate your FREE claim review. Your satisfaction and peace of mind are our top priorities.