Life after water damage is often challenging. Emotions are high and frustrations go through the roof. It is also the time you find yourself seeking answers to questions such as what is going to happen and what to do next. One of the most important questions that arise from water damage is whether the homeowner’s insurance will cover the damage. Here are five crucial things every homeowner should know about water damage and insurance.

Water and flood damage have different insurance policies

Insurance companies offer different policies for water and flood damage. Most people think that water and flood damage are two closely related things. They only realize that they are wrong when it is too late. Insurance providers do not include flood damage in the homeowners insurance package. The best thing is to ask the insurance company or go through the National Flood Insurance Policy briefings to know more about flood damage insurance, especially if you are living in areas that are prone to flooding. Also, make sure you distinguish if your claim is for water or flood damage so that the provider can adjust it appropriately.

Some aspects of the damage are not covered

You need to evaluate your insurance policy to determine the things that are covered and the ones that are not. Some insurance companies can cover you against sudden damage due to a storm or a leaking pipe while others do not. Most insurance providers do not cover people from the damages caused by poorly maintained water systems.

Time is of the essence after a damage

It is only a matter of time before you experience a catastrophic event after a damage. You need to come up with water damage restoration techniques as fast as possible before everything gets worse. Mold can grow on the property and cause secondary damage and serious illnesses. A growing mold has the potential to cause irreversible damages such as permanent stains that can only go away after repeated painting.

There is usually a grace period of one to two days before the molds begin to grow. To prevent the growth or the spread, you need to outsource services from a water damage restoration expert.

You should notify the insurance company immediately

The insurance company must know about your predicament right away. Once you communicate, the company will send its agents to your home to begin the claim process. They will also provide you with helpful tips on how to stop further damages or prevent a similar occurrence in the future. You will need a qualified water damage restoration specialist to help you navigate  the claims process so you can get the full coverage you deserve.

The damages caused by water are classified into three categories based on the quality of the water that caused the damage. Category 1 consists of water that comes from a clean source. This water is less harmful, as it does not cause illnesses or any other negative long-term effect. Category 2 consists of water that has bacteria. It may cause illnesses, especially in children. Category 3 water has a significant amount of contaminants. This water can cause serious illnesses and even death. Category 3 water can come from a sewage, a storm or an overflowing toilet. Category 1 water can be contaminated and change to Category 2 or 3 if it stays for a long time without any attention.

Highly contaminated water may prompt the restoration team to use an aggressive approach to clean the property. Such techniques may involve destroying your carpets or furniture so as to protect you from the possible illnesses.

Water damage restoration services

Damages caused by water can affect your life negatively. It is important to take stringent measures to tackle them appropriately and on time. Our company is a veteran water damage restoration service provider in Los Angeles. We have a team of experts with many years of experience in water damage restoration and prevention. We work with our clients on a personal level to ensure that they get back on their feet faster.