Is water damage to laminate flooring covered?
It’s very frustrating when your laminate flooring sustains water damage. The damage could be caused, for example, by a burst pipe or by rainwater that has seeped inside. Naturally, you’ll wonder whether your insurer will cover the damage to your laminate flooring. First, the insurer will conduct an investigation. Based on the results of that investigation, the insurer will make a decision regarding coverage.
Always try to take photos of the damage. This will help your insurance company accurately assess the extent of the damage. You should also make sure the water is removed from your home as soon as possible.
In certain cases, the insurer may send an adjuster to your home. The adjuster will assess the damage and prepare a report. If your claim is denied, it is always advisable to hire an independent adjuster.
When is water damage to laminate flooring covered?
Water damage is initially covered by yourhome contents insurance. This applies to damage in the following cases:
- frozen/burst pipes
- unforeseen circumstances
- heavy rainfall
- roof leak
Insurers define "unforeseen circumstances" as situations in which no overdue maintenance has been identified. This is the case, for example, when sewage backs up through the toilet or a washing machine leaks (even if it has been properly maintained).
In the cases listed above, there’s a good chance you’ll be reimbursed for the damage. However, you should always review the terms of your insurance policy. The amount you’re reimbursed can vary depending on the insurer.
Be sure to report the damage to your insurer as soon as possible. The sooner you report the damage, the greater your chances of receiving compensation.
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In what cases is water damage to laminate flooring not covered?
There are a number of situations in which water damage to your laminate flooring is not covered. In the following situations, you will not receive compensation for the damage:
- Own Fault. Insurersdefine “own fault” as damage caused by overdue maintenance and damage resulting from negligence.
- Overdue maintenance.Damage is oftencaused by overdue maintenance. It is therefore advisable to check for damage on a regular basis. After all, if it hasn’t been checked, it hasn’t been maintained.
- Negligence. Didyou accidentally leave a window open during a severe storm? Unfortunately, your insurer won't cover the water damage in that case. Be sure to always close all windows properly.
- Floods/natural disasters. Damagecaused by natural disasters is never covered by an insurance company. Do you still want to file a claim for this damage? If so, you can turn to the government’s Damage Compensation Act.
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