How to Determine if Your Broken Pipe is Covered by Insurance

10/14/2019 (Permalink)

A broken pipe in Downtown Miami,FL

How to Determine if Your Broken Pipe is Covered by Insurance

If a broken pipe has resulted in a flood in your home in Downtown Miami, FL, then you may be wondering if your homeowner’s insurance will cover the damage. Luckily, in many cases, the answer is yes. However, there are some exceptions to this. Answering the following questions can help you determine if your claim will be approved.

1. Were the Pipes Properly Maintained?

If you have been taking care of your home, then it is likely you will have insurance coverage for a broken pipe. However, if the insurance company finds that you have been negligent in maintaining your house and the plumbing, then your claim will likely be denied.

2. How Old Were the Pipes?

Over time, pipes can begin to deteriorate. They can become rusty and develop cracks or weak areas. Because it is expected that the homeowner will replace old pipes before they become a problem, your insurance policy will usually not include damage caused by normal wear and tear.

3. Did You Ignore Any Signs of Damage?

Perhaps you noticed that you had a small leak but decided that it wasn’t a big deal. Choosing not to fix broken pipes can make it difficult to have your claim approved if the problem becomes larger. Persistent leaks can cause damage on their own and can indicate a damaged pipe as well, so always have this repaired right away.

4. Was the Break Sudden?

One of the easiest ways to know if the flood in your home will be covered is to determine if the break was sudden and accidental. If there were no previous signs of damage and there is nothing you could have done to prevent it from happening, then your claim will usually be approved.
Because a flood from a broken pipe can cause a lot of damage to your home, you should have it taken care of as soon as possible. A water damage remediation company can remove the water from your home and repair the building and affected belongings. As long as you have properly maintained your home, your insurance should cover the costs.