Does Homeowners Insurance Cover a Flooded Basement?

11/18/2021 (Permalink)

A flooded basement in Forks Township, PA.

Homeowners' insurance policies cover most accidental damage, even if the cause is not a covered peril. You may increase the chances that your insurance company will cover damage by taking preventative measures and performing regular maintenance. Here are three considerations to help you determine whether you can count on insurance coverage in the event of a basement flood.

What Caused the Basement to Flood?

There are several reasons a basement can flood. Water may originate from

• A broken pipe
  
• A leaky water heater
  
• Heavy rains
  
• Flooding
  
• Sewer backup
  
• Washing machine overflow
  
  

Unless you have proof of recent inspections and regular maintenance, most of these causes are not covered perils. The water damage that results is likely to be covered, unless the cause is flooding, which is only covered by a separate flood insurance policy.

Which Maintenance or Preventative Measures Have You Taken?

In addition to inspections and repairs, you may need to prove you have done everything you can to prevent a basement flood and mitigate the damage in a timely manner. Make sure your sump pump is operational and has a backup power source. Heat your home in freezing weather and allow a faucet to drip to prevent pipes from bursting. Flush and inspect your water heater several times a year. Regardless of the cause, contact your insurance company as soon as water floods your basement.

Have You Done All You Can To Mitigate the Problem?

As long as you take extensive photographic and video evidence of a flooded basement, you can start to mitigate damage before an adjuster arrives. Turn off the water supply if it will slow or stop the flow of water.

Contact your insurance company to schedule a basement flood appointment with a claims adjuster. You can also obtain estimates from a plumber or appliance repair specialist and a home restoration service in Forks Township, PA.