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When Do I Need a Professional for My Water Problem and When is My Water Damage Covered?
Water damage can happen in many ways, but it is almost always expensive and dangerous. Whether you've had a pipe burst or your home has been flooded from rain or snowmelt, water damage can be devastating to your family. In fact, 37% of U.S. homeowners suffer water damage, and over $2.5 billion is spent annually on water damage claims. Thankfully, you can take some steps to minimize the damage caused by water problems. In this blog post, we will look at when you need a professional for your water damage and what is covered.
Hazards of Water Damage
Water damage can be defined as any damage caused by water to a structure. This can include damage from a burst pipe, a flood, or rainwater seeping through cracks in the walls or roof. Water damage can cause massive destruction and can be very costly to repair. Often, water damage is not covered by insurance unless it is sudden and accidental, so it is vital to have a professional take care of any water damage problems as soon as possible.
Water damage can be hazardous. Not only can it cause massive financial damage, but it can also lead to long-term health problems if not handled properly. Water damage can warp wood, rust metal, and cause mold to grow. Mold can cause serious health problems, including asthma, allergies, and cancer. For this reason, it is crucial to have a professional take care of any water damage as soon as possible. Handling the problem yourself can often lead to further damage and increased health risks, so it is recommended that a professional look at most cases.
The Cost of Water Damage
Water damage can be a costly problem. A burst pipe, for example, can cost from $5,000 and up if not caught in time. Factors that can affect the cost of water damage repairs include:
- The severity of the damage.
- The size of the area affected.
- The type of repair work needed.
Often, homeowners are not covered for water damage under their insurance policies.
However, water damage can have a more severe cost than just the price tag. Mold, for example, can grow if water is not cleaned up quickly and correctly. This can cause respiratory problems for the home residents and can also cause extensive damage to the home itself. It is vital to have a professional take care of water damage as soon as possible to avoid these long-term problems.
Water damage can have long-term effects on both residential and commercial properties. It can also cause wood to rot, leading to structural damage. In addition, water damage can cause metal to rust and electronic equipment to short-circuit.
Water Damage and Insurance Coverage
It is essential to understand what is and is not covered by insurance before water damage occurs. To know if water damage is covered by insurance, you need to understand your insurance policy. Most homeowner policies cover water damage, but there are exceptions. Some standard exclusions to water damage coverage include:
- Damage caused by sewer backup.
- Damage caused by a defective product.
- Losses that are intentionally caused by the policyholder.
- Mold damage, which is usually covered by a separate policy.
- Damage caused by neglect or lack of proper maintenance.
- Damage caused by groundwater, such as seepage or leaks.
- Damage to a basement that is not part of the insured's main residence.
- Damage caused by a flood, which is typically covered by a separate policy.
If you are unsure if your insurance policy covers water damage, contact your insurance company. They will tell you if water damage is covered and what is excluded from your policy.
If you're ever faced with a water emergency, it's essential to know who to call. ZenDry Restoration is here to help 24/7 with water damage cleanup and restoration. We can also help you take care of any mold problems that may arise due to water damage. Don't let water emergencies get the best of you. Call Zen Dry Restorations for help with all your water damage needs in north Georgia and the metro Atlanta area.
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