Wednesday, January 7, 2015

DOES THE HOME INSURANCE COVERS WATER DAMAGE FROM BURST PIPES?


 HOME INSURANCE AND WATER DAMAGE CLAIMS FROM BURST PIPES

People need to pay attention to their insurance coverage when a pipe bursts.

“Depending on the source of the property damage, you may or may not be covered.

Pipes breaking inside the house and any resulting water damage is generally covered by a homeowner’s policy.

Broken pipes outside on the property are not covered.

Also, water damage from a main break or other source outside the residence could be classified as a “flood” or “seepage,” which would not be covered under a standard policy.

Insurance policies for renters or condominium dwellers usually cover water damage from an upstairs unit. Without insurance, a property owner would have to prove negligence to draw on the liability coverage on a neighbor’s policy.

People must use extra caution with home heating devices and make sure space heaters and wood stoves are a safe distance away from bedding and curtains and any other combustible material.  At least 3 feet is the MINIMUM recommended distance.