Flood vs. Rain Damage

8/14/2019 (Permalink)

The difference between water and flood damage

At first glimpse, water and flood damage might seem to be the same thing but how water is getting into your home can be very different. A roof or window that is leaking can cause rain to intrude. Gutter and downspouts can also be a large contributor to rain damage. Flood damage however is caused by rising water. Improper grading, failing drainage, or rising rivers are all examples of how flood damage can occur. Both involve large amounts of water entering your home or business and can cause damage. Unfortunately, one of these types of damages is not included in a regular insurance policy.

Water Damage Insurance Claims

 Water damage is usually covered by the insurance company under a standard policy. Water damage includes:

• Water damage cause by burst pipes
• Gradual water seepage due to cracks in the foundations of your home, business or other structures
• Mold or rot

Flood Damage Insurance Claims

 Most of the time flood damage isn’t considered a type of water damage to the insurance company. For this reason, most businesses or homeowner’s policies do not cover flood damage unless you had purchased a separate policy. If you live in an area where flooding is common it might be worth investing in some type of flood insurance.