DOES HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE COVER PLUMBING?

If you have a home in California, you know the importance of having the right homeowners policy. However, many people fail to read between the lines and discover that something they thought was covered actually isn’t.

So, before purchasing a homeowner’s insurance policy, you need to know what is covered and what is not so you can avoid unpleasant surprises in the case of an emergency.

One of the more common household emergencies is a plumbing emergency. Do you know if your homeowner’s policy covers this kind of damage?

Homeowners Insurance and Plumbing Issues

If you are faced with unexpected and costly damage due to the home’s plumbing, then there is a chance that the damage is covered under your policy. However, you need to be aware of the specifics involving your homeowner’s policy to know for sure.

My Dishwasher Is Leaking

If your dishwasher has sprung a leak or the hose suddenly bursts and floods your kitchen floor, then any damage to the kitchen floor may be covered. However, the cost to replace the broken dishwasher will typically not be covered.

Burst Pipes

If a pipe has frozen and then burst in the home on the second floor, it can cause extensive damage as it soaks the ceiling and drains to the first floor. If the damage was completely unexpected and not something that could have been avoided, it may be covered.

The homeowner’s insurance policy may cover the cost involved in removing and replacing the ceiling where the water damage occurred. It may also even cover damages to your furniture, carpeting, and other items that were affected.

However, if you failed to maintain your plumbing system or kept the heat in the home off for an extended time, you may not have coverage for the damages due to the burst pipe.

Coverage Protections

If you have damage due to a plumbing issue, there are three types of coverage on your homeowner’s policy that might offer you the protection you need.

Dwelling Coverage

Dwelling coverage on a homeowner’s insurance policy is what protects the structure of the home. It also helps pay for repair costs or the cost involved in rebuilding if you need to call in an emergency plumber or contractor. The coverage under this protection typically extends to damage to the carpeting, floor, and walls.

Personal Property Coverage

If you had belongings that were destroyed due to a plumbing emergency, then this coverage may reimburse you for the value of those belongings. This includes damaged clothing, for example, if the burst pipe flooded and damaged your closet.

Additional Living Expenses Coverage

In some cases of more severe damage, you may have to move out of the home for a lengthy amount of time while the repairs are being done. In this case, you may find that you have coverage that will help pay for these expenses, including a hotel, travel costs, food, and more.

However, be mindful of your coverage limits and deductibles when filing a claim with your homeowner’s insurance company.

Contact Panorama

For more information on homeowner’s insurance policies and the kind of coverage, you should be sure to have, contact the experts at Panorama today.