There are a variety of ways your business might suffer water damage. From floods to putting out fires, water damage is a real threat to your business, and there are a few things you need to know to protect your investment.
Not All Water Damage Is Created Equal
You might think that water is just water, but to your insurance company, this is far from the truth. Unless otherwise specifically stated, flood damage and certain types of water damage are not generally covered under the same policy. While most commercial insurance policies will cover water damage, you will need an additional policy to cover flood damage. Many times, it matters how the water was discharged. Water discharge from some types of building systems can be covered, while it is not covered if the water came from a different type of fixture or system.
Don’t Forget The Maintenance
You might think a tiny leak from a pipe isn’t anything to worry about, but this is far from the truth. Gradual leaks cause damage over time, and if you don’t make any effort to fix the leak your insurance company might not cover damage associated with “continuous or repeated seepage.” Regular maintenance can ensure you avoid costly out of pocket repairs in the future.
The Clock Is Ticking
Do not waste time in contacting your insurance company after suffering water damage. Water damage has the potential to cause massive secondary damage if not immediately treated. In as little as 24 to 48 hours, mold can begin to grow and become widespread. Mold can cause serious health problems and is very costly to have removed, so clean up needs to begin as soon as possible.
Water Pollution Levels Matter
Water damage is categorized into three levels by the amount of pollution. Water with high pollution levels could cause serious illness or death if not handled appropriately. It’s important to keep in mind that while some water might start off without any pollutants, it might not stay that way. If there is any doubt about the level of pollution in water damage, leave it to the professionals.
Bad Faith Insurance Claims
Sometimes policyholders follow all appropriate steps when filing a commercial insurance claim, but their claim will still be denied. Some insurance companies, like surplus lines insurers, will often use bad faith tactics to avoid paying out costly claims. However, with the help of a skilled insurance attorney, policyholders can obtain the compensation they rightfully deserve under their policies.
Raizner Slania: Texas Water Damage Claims Attorneys
The experienced water damage attorneys at Raizner Slania have successfully obtained compensation for clients against some of the largest insurance companies in the world. If your business suffered water damage and your commercial insurance claim was denied, call us today for a free consultation.
