Water Damage

When it comes to water damage in your home or business, it is important to be aware that timing is critical in preventing water damage from affecting the value—or even the structural integrity—of your property. Any indication that water has made an unwelcome appearance demands quick, decisive action. Water can cause property damage in and of itself, but the longer lasting consequences of water damage like structural damage and mold growth, can be just as (if not more) costly in the long run. Repairing and restoring a property that has suffered from water damage requires the assistance of experts, and receiving your full, deserved insurance settlement to engage their help requires the assistance of a Licensed Public Adjuster.

“With the professional staff at All Claims USA, I experienced prompt and diligent service. Their support throughout the damage and assessment process has been exceptional, resulting in a very satisfactory settlement.” – EMILY, FL

Water damage is responsible for more property claims than any other type of property damage and represent the largest financial burden on insurance companies. Over the years we have worked with many clients that have had their claim denied or underpaid by their insurance company.  Our Public Adjusters use cutting edge technology to inspect your property and estimate your damages accurately.

TOP TIPS FOR DEALING WITH WATER DAMAGE INSURANCE CLAIMS

To get the best possible results from your claim, follow our top tips:

• Keep an Updated Copy of Your Insurance Policy on Hand
  And if you don’t have one, requesting one should be your first step as soon as you notice that there is the potential for property damage. Policy language can be complex and difficult to understand, and subject to interpretation. Our Public Adjusters read policy on a daily basis and can determine the best way to apply your coverages to maximize your settlement.
• Practice Patience When It Comes to Restoration
  You will want to take immediate steps to mitigate property damage from the encroachment of water or moisture, but do not undertake repairs or restoration until you’ve consulted with your Public Adjuster. Taking steps to conduct repairs and restoration before agreeing on the scope of the damage with your carrier could lead to underpayment or even denial of your claims.
• Don’t Rely Solely on Your Insurance Companies Estimate
  Don’t rely entirely on your insurance carrier’s estimate damages. The insurance company adjuster does not work for you and they tend to minimize damages to reduce costs for the insurance company.  A Public Adjuster exclusively represents the policy holder. Your claim value will likely change substantially when you have a professional estimate done by your Public Adjuster who is working in your best interest in mind.

PIPE BREAK CLAIMS

When a water pipe breaks in your home or business, the damage can be substantial. Depending on which pipes break, there can be significant flooding; you may see damage to walls, floors, your belongings, stock, and furnishings. There are many other types of pipe breaks which cause damage. These include:

• Underground leaks
• Leaks in the ceiling
• Leaks in the walls

These are particularly damaging, as you often do not notice the leak itself until significant damage has been done.

WHAT CAUSES PIPE BREAKS?

In colder areas of the country, the most common reason for pipe breaks or bursts is extreme cold weather, so why does Florida still suffer from pipe breaks? There are a few reasons.

• Pinhole leaks in copper piping. Florida is plagued by pinhole leaks through aging piping. Pinhole leaks occur when corrosion inside a copper pipe breaks through to the outside of the pipe. Since the amount of water leaking is small compared to a total break, it can be difficult to notice a leak has occurred.
• Strong water flow. In situations where the overall water system is badly flooded, such as during a hurricane, pipes can be subjected to such incredible pressure that they burst. When water recedes and water service is restored, pipes can show significant leakage, causing additional damage. This can also happen when a pipe becomes significantly clogged due to household buildup, a clogged toilet, or other backup issue.
• Older piping. Water mains throughout the country are, on average, more than 47 years old. Copper piping within homes is prone to damage, especially at elbow joints and joins. Over time, these pipes are more likely to burst than newer piping materials.
• Mature trees on the property. The roots of trees are drawn to water pipes because they provide both oxygen and water, which trees need. Roots can break or clog a pipe, causing significant damage.

WHY DO INSURANCE COMPANIES RESIST PAYING PIPE BREAK CLAIMS?

Many insurance policies do not cover pipe break claims that are caused by wear and tear on the system. Therefore, if your claim appears to be due simply to the age of pipes, you may have difficulty on your own getting appropriate reimbursement from your insurance company. While the adjuster on your claim is required to act in the interest of the insurance company, Public Adjusters are professionals who act on behalf of the policy holder. We have years of professional experience helping policy owners get appropriate restitution from their insurance company.

If you need help determining exactly what your policy covers, or, if your claim was underpaid or denied, contact All Claims USA Public Adjusters for assistance. We will help you untangle the complexities of insurance and find the right solution. Reach out to us today to find out how we can help you get the reimbursement you are entitled to and deserve!