While Floridians love water in the form of lakes, rivers, or the ocean, we definitely do NOT want to see it pouring into our homes from a broken pipe or flooded yard! Water damage is one of the most common—and expensive—homeowners insurance claims Florida residents make. While some types of water damage are covered by a standard home insurance policy, some are not. Read on for more information about how water can harm your home as well a few ways you can prevent water damage.
Ways water can damage your home
There are several sources of water damage, including:
- Roof leaks
- Burst pipes
- Malfunctioning appliances
- Rising water (flooding)
- Plumbing leaks
Which of these would likely be covered by homeowners insurance? Only numbers two and three! Numbers one and five would be considered maintenance issues, and number four, flooding, is also not covered by a standard home policy.
Remember, standard home insurance policies pay for water damage, as long as it is sudden and accidental, rather than due to failure to maintain your home properly. And home insurance does not cover flood damage. If you need flood coverage, you’ll need a separate flood policy. Click here for more information, or click here for a flood insurance quote.
Water damage prevention tips
Keeping it in good repair is the best way to prevent water damage to your Florida home. Here are some tips to help you protect your home, from top to bottom, against water damage:
- Make sure your roof is in good condition. One way to check out your roof without climbing a ladder is to use binoculars to examine it. Look for damaged or missing shingles or tiles, and make sure the flashing is in good condition. If you have an attic or another way to examine the underside of your roof, look for stains, dark or sagging spots, or light coming through. If you notice damage, consult a trustworthy professional about repairs.
- Clean gutters and downspouts. Regularly remove debris from gutters, and make sure downspouts are at least three feet long so they drain water away from your home’s foundation. Water overflow from gutters can damage your roof, walls, and foundation.
- Seal doors and windows. To keep moisture out, caulk around windows and doors, and repair any gaps or cracks. Rain or condensation can seep in and damage windows and doors over time. Gradual damage like this will not be covered by home insurance.
- Inspect and repair plumbing and appliances. A plumbing leak can do a lot of damage, and may not be covered under homeowners insurance if the cause is a maintenance issue, rather than a “sudden and unexpected” occurrence. Look around your water heater, under sinks, and around appliances for signs of leaking and repair right away. Consider installing a leak detector—there are several types at different price points. You should also watch your water bill for higher-than-normal use.
- Locate your main water shut-off valve. If a pipe bursts, you may be able to prevent severe damage if you can shut the water off quickly.
Protect your most valuable asset with Florida home insurance
Water damage can affect the structural integrity of your home. You can help prevent this costly headache by routinely inspecting and maintaining your home, and making sure your homeowners insurance is adequate for your needs. In addition to certain types of water damage, a Florida homeowners insurance policy will protect your home from other perils, such as fire, lightning, burglary, and storm damage. At L & M Insurance Group, our experienced agents can help you navigate the complicated Florida homeowners insurance market and find the most cost-effective coverage for your personal situation. Give us a call at (813) 672-4100, or start your homeowners quote online.
