If you live in Louisiana, where the weather can be harsh, you may have experienced water damage in your home or property due to storms, floods or other causes.
Water damage can be devastating and costly, and it can also affect your health and safety. That is why it is important to know how to deal with water damage and what your insurance policy covers.
How water damage affects your insurance claim
The way your insurance company handles your water damage claim depends on several factors, such as the type and extent of the damage, the cause and origin of the water and the terms and conditions of your policy.
Generally, homeowners’ insurance policies cover water damage caused by burst pipes, problems with appliances, roof leaks and other sudden, accidental events. However, they may not cover water damage caused by gradual or preventable events, such as seepage, mold growth or poor maintenance.
Additionally, most homeowners’ insurance policies do not cover water damage caused by flooding from natural disasters, such as hurricanes, storms or heavy rains. For this type of coverage, you need a separate flood insurance policy from the National Flood Insurance Program or a private insurer.
How to deal with water damage
If you discover water damage in your home or property, you should stop the source of the water if possible and safe to do so. Turn off the main water supply valve or electricity if needed.
Next, contact your insurance company as soon as possible and report the damage. Follow their instructions and document everything with photos and videos.
Remove any excess water with towels, mops, buckets or wet/dry vacuums.
Be careful not to spread contaminated water to other areas. Move any furniture, rugs, electronics or valuables to a dry place. Dry and ventilate the affected area with fans, dehumidifiers or open windows. Avoid using heaters or blowers that can spread mold spores.
Call a professional water damage restoration company to inspect and restore your property. They have the equipment and expertise to handle any type of water damage and prevent further problems.
Conclusion
Water damage can be a serious problem for homeowners and property owners, and it does matter how water entered the property. Depending on the source of the water, your claim may be approved or denied by your insurance company. To avoid any surprises or disputes, you should review your policy carefully and understand what it covers and what it excludes.