INDUSTRY INSIGHT
HOMEOWNER ’ S INSURANCE
SPONSORED CONTENT
PROTECT YOUR HOME FROM WATER DAMAGE
While most people are understandably concerned about insuring their homes against fire loss , that risk is not what causes the most losses for homeowners .
Water damage is a more common threat that accounts for more claims than fire damage . Statistics show that one out of every five homes will experience some water damage each year . Only wind and hail damage occur more frequently .
A little bit of water can cause a lot of damage . Two inches of water in a 2,500 square foot one-story home can cause almost $ 27,000 in damage .
The problem is more than just the monetary cost ; water damage losses can disrupt your life for long periods . A Texas woman lost the use of her downstairs for months after a household pet chewed a hole in a soft water line .
Water can escape from leaky hoses or connections that have worn out or were improperly made in the first place . It can drip out of damaged or corroded pipes . It can reverse course because of clogged drains or toilets .
Rain can enter through holes in a roof or through an open or damaged window . Water can seep in when a stream overflows its banks , a heavy snowfall melts , or during an intense summer downpour .
Fortunately , homeowners can take a few simple steps to prevent their downstairs from becoming ponds :
• Know where your water shutoff valves are . If water runs from your plumbing system to your floor , minimize the damage by stopping the flow in its tracks . Shutoff valves are under sinks , against bathroom walls , and in basements .
• Check appliance hoses and faucets for leaks . The hoses connected to washing machines and dishwashers could be faulty .
• Look for cracks and loose connections in pipes . Get them repaired immediately .
• Check showers and tubs for worn-out caulking . Reseal as necessary .
• Install a water leak detection system . Some insurance companies offer discounts on homeowner ’ s insurance premiums for them .
It is essential to know that virtually no policies will cover damage caused by floods , tidal waves , melting snow , heavy rainfall , or groundwater seeping into the house .
Some of these losses may be covered by flood insurance , available either directly from the federal government or an insurance company selling it on their behalf .
Water can cause enormous damage to your home and cause incredible inconvenience . Prevent these accidents if you can and have the proper insurance protection .
PROTECTING WHAT YOU LOVE IS OUR TOP PRIORITY .
What to do if you have water damage If you do suffer water damage , insurance may pay for some losses but not others . While all homeowner ’ s insurance policies differ somewhat , they typically cover damage from water that escapes from pipes in ceilings , floors , and walls .
Some companies offer coverage for an additional premium that will pay for damage when a toilet or some other drain backs up .
Cusumano Insurance , a local family-owned business , has been serving the Pittsburgh area since 1958 . The agency represents several insurance companies offering various options for your personal and business insurance needs . Its experienced staff are creative problem solvers who help find the suitable insurance companies , products and discounts to meet your specific needs . Give them a call today for a free insurance review .
This Industry Insight was provided by :
Joann Cusumano Sciulli , AAI Agency Principal
Rosann Cusumano Elinsky , AAI , LUTCF Agency Principal
Cusumano Insurance Agency , Inc . • 178 Clairton Blvd • Pleasant Hills , PA 15236
The heart of our business is protecting your evolving story . We ’ re always here if you need us no matter what tomorrow brings .
CUSUMANO INSURANCE
178 Clairton Blvd Pittsburgh PA 15236 412-655-4432 contactus @ cusumanoinsurance . com www . cusumanoinsurance . com Like us on Facebook
WEST JEFFERSON HILLS ❘ SUMMER 2021 13