Craig PornoreyMany residential units in New York are located in basements. Residents choose them due to affordability. Only 5% of above-ground dwellings are accessible to average earners. Hence, it’s natural to find people living in the basements. Unfortunately, unpredictable weather in the city has become a cause of frequent torrential rains and flash floods. During these times, basement apartments are most vulnerable to water damage. But other things can also cause water in the basement, such as burst pipes, sewage backup, overflowing toilets and tubs, etc. How do you handle this situation? Seek help from contractors specializing in post-disaster repair and restoration. They can manage emergency repairs as well as permanent restoration projects. You also want their support for claim processes. So, choose the right person or agency.
Those offering damage claims services complete their work on time by onboarding sub-contractors and workers. They meet the quality standards. You can trust them to navigate any property damage caused by different perils, such as water, fire, wind, etc. They have all the equipment and know how to cooperate and collaborate with insurance companies, so you get fair compensation. Trust them to help with mold removal. Suppose your basement is flooded. You can contact the local contractor for property inspection and risk mitigation.
They will collect evidence, estimate repair and restoration costs, and do all the paperwork to submit a claim to your insurance company for approval. Now, you may wonder what damage your insurance will cover in the flooded basement. Let’s explore.
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Flooded basement damage claim
It’s natural to ask, if my basement flooded what will insurance cover? Typically, homeowners insurance pays for damage to the basement and personal property in this event. However, those perils must be covered. If the source is a pipe burst, insurance may pay to repair or replace things in the basement damaged by flood water. Likewise, AC or washing machine leaks, sudden overflowing of sink, tub, or toilet, and other such accidental phenomena can also be considered eligible.
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Things to make note of
If you fear flooding risk in the basement due to natural floods, sewer backup, and groundwater backup, think beyond standard homeowners’ insurance.
Consider opting for endorsements, such as flood insurance, water backup coverage, contents replacement coverage, service line coverage, etc. Flood insurance can be a separate policy, whether government- or private insurer-sponsored. You need this if your home is in a floodplain. Additional coverage for water backup can help you cover the cost of damage caused by the sump pump or drain water backup. Service line coverage can help look after the devastation caused by sewer and water lines.
Consider having an option for basement contents replacement, too. Many HO-3 insurance companies reimburse the total cost or actual cash value of the personal item, so you don’t have to pay anything out of your pocket for replacement.
A proper insurance policy can pay for floodwater cleanup, repair and restoration of some structural elements, mold and mildew removal, etc. However, insurers need proof and proper claim filing. Your damage restoration contractor can manage everything. So, focus on getting the right person for the job. The agency or contractor will handle the rest.
