CAN MY WATER BE CLEANED UP IF THE HOME HAS NO POWER?
We have received a numerous calls after the storm regarding the unfortunate issue of people that have taken on water but still have no power. Many people assume that extraction equipment can be hooked up to a generator. They do not understand why a generator isn't used to actually remove the water and that we use a truck mount for this method of extraction. Extracting the water from the home is not necessarily the issue, having the water return after it is extracted is.
The property needs to have power in order to extract standing water. The reason we do not begin work prior to the source being fixed is because water still has the ability to come back in. We could be extracting while water is still coming in. If the electric is off, the source is not fixed. We cannot run drying equipment for three days off of a generator; electricity is needed for that.
Many homes are taking on water because the power went out and their sump pumps weren't working. If the power is still out, the sump pumps are still not working. This means that homes can still get water in their basement. Once power is restored the standing water can properly be addressed and will start to recede on its own.
Who is going to pay to have a company perform a service that doesn't offer a proper end result? Many insurance companies are not going to pay for water extraction while the power is out because they know it is and endless cycle at the moment and the service bill will far exceed what a bill should be. They know they are basically wasting money to pay a company to to extract, watch water fill back up, extract, watch water fill back up and so on. If a customer signs a contract for mitigation services then they are liable for whatever the insurance company won't cover. Do you want to put yourself at risk to pay out of pocket for this service if the insurance company doesn't cover the bill?
We understand how horrific this situation is for some. We know that this protocol is not what a homeowner wants to hear but this method of operation is honest and transparent feedback. Our company follows protocols in order to provide a efficient and effective service that offers a proper end result. Many other mitigation companies operate this same way.
Please note: Exhaust from generators is harmful to your health.
The following blog discusses topics that pertain to property damage. Rainbow International would like to share this information with consumers so that they can educate themselves on property damage restoration and homeowners insurance. Rainbow International of South & West Suburbs - Hickory Hills, IL Service Line: 708-460-0911
Thursday, July 10, 2014
Monday, June 30, 2014
THINGS TO LOOK FOR IN A MOLD REMEDIATION
COMPANY
Certifications
General
contractors may be qualified for many areas of construction but they are not
qualified to address mold remediation. Mold remediation requires certification
to ensure that proper guidelines are followed when remediating mold. If you do
not hire a certified professional to address your mold issue you run the risk
of having the mold return as well. Having anyone other than a certified firm address
your mold damage can then turn into a costly project in the long run.
The
Institute of Inspection Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC)
was created to govern contractors and work practices in the restoration
industry. The IICRC has designed guidelines for restoration work such as water damage, carpet cleaning,
fire and smoke damage clean up and mold removal. Rainbow International’s mold
remediation team is IICRC certified in Applied Microbial Remediation
The IICRC S520 Guidelines for Mold Remediation are the industry standards mold
remediation. Visit
http://www.iicrc.org/consumers/care/mold-remediation/ for more
information.
Better Business Bureau
Accredited
The
Better Business Bureau (BBB) was first established in 1912. This non-profit
entity’s sole purpose is to create a fair marketplace for personal
services. The Better Business Bureau runs
background checks and maintains a complaint history on companies who are
members. A track record of zero complaints reflects dedication to the company’s
clients. Certified mold remediation contractors should maintain an “A”
rating or better through the BBB in order to ensure reputable service to their
clients. Property owners can inspect a contractor’s BBB rating at bbb.org. As of 2014, Rainbow
International of South & West Suburbs has an A+.
Mold Testing
Just doing an air sample alone does not offer the
most definitive results. A full and thorough inspection is the only way to
definitively determine if you have a mold infestation and what the extent of it
is. Sometimes you cannot see mold but you can smell it. Mold remediation
contractors should first do a visual inspection to know what they are dealing
with. Mold is usually a symptom of a
bigger problem related to inadequate ventilation or a buildup of moisture. The
source of the problem should be addressed before remediation is performed to
ensure that mold does not return after it is cleaned up.
Moisture
measurements should be taken and mold samples should be collected to know what
strain of mold they are dealing with. Air samples are taken within the home to
see if the inside air shows mold spores that are different than the spores
outside of the home. This also determines if the mold count is higher inside
the home than outside. The amount of samples taken depends on the size of your
property and if you want the whole property tested or if you have certain areas
you are concerned about.
Rainbow
International offers thorough onsite evaluations and air sampling.
Air Quality
Association (IAQA)
Rainbow
International is associated with The Indoor Air Quality Association (IAQA). The
IAQA provides a national forum for the development and publication of voluntary
consensus standards for the assessment, remediation and management of indoor
environments. This quality control association offers indoor environmental quality standards,
related technical information, and services having recognized quality and applicability
that promote public health and safety, and the overall quality of life. See
more information about the IAQA at http://www.iaqa.org/.
Independent Industrial
Hygienists
Not
all jobs require air sampling on the front-end. Air sampling can be done in
house but all companies should send these samples to laboratories for the
analysis.
It
is recommend that all jobs be clearance tested by an accredited third party
Environmentalist or Industrial Hygienist after the work has been
performed. This eliminates the possibility of a conflict of interest and
manipulated test results. Industrial
Hygienists may be found at: https://webportal.aiha.org/Custom/ConsultantsSearch.aspx.
Mold Report
Once
the results are returned the laboratory data is then shared with you. Rainbow
International’s operations team goes over the results with you by explaining
what strain of mold you are dealing with and what the remediation process will
consist of.
Estimate
The
cost of mold remediation varies widely, depending on numerous factors. Factors
that influence the cost of mold remediation include:
- The
size and location of the area affected by mold
- Whether
or not there is mold in your heating, ventilation and air conditioning
system
- Whether
or not moldy materials can be cleaned or must be removed, safely disposed
of, and replaced (like insulation, drywall or carpet)
- Whether
or not mold developed after flooding with water that may have been
contaminated with sewage or other hazardous substances
The EPA recommends
that you do not attempt to remove mold yourself unless it is on a surface area
of no more than a 10 foot area. Each situation is different and circumstances dictate the
outcome of every job. On average, you can expect to pay in the high end of the
$1.15 - $3.02 per linear foot range for a licensed, bonded and insured
contractor and for complex or rush projects. Timing
is critical when you suspect you have a mold issue. The longer mold is left
untreated the more expensive remediation can become since spores spread rapidly
and are often airborne. Every day you delay just allows the problem to worsen
and this will end up costing your more in the long run.
The cost of
remediation is nothing compared to the importance of your health! Long term
exposure to mold can cause severe illness so mold should be addressed before it
is out of control and causes you to have health concerns.
Homeowners insurance
typically covers mold remediation
and removal ONLY if the problem
results from a direct peril that is covered under your policy. Insurance
usually doesn't cover mold issues that have resulted from chronic moisture,
deferred maintenance, or floodwaters (unless you carry flood insurance).
Personal
Protective Equipment (PPE)
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
in necessary to prevent illness or injury during a mold remediation
project. Remediators are at risk when performing mold remediation so the
proper equipment is needed to keep them protected.
Exposure to mold can cause reactions
to people who are not typically allergic to mold. Even short-term
exposure can lead to illness. Symptoms such as skin irritation, eye irritation,
chronic congestion, lung deficiencies, respiratory problems, and high fevers
are all linked to toxic mold exposure. There are many different strains of mold
and some strains are more toxic than others.
To protect against these reactions
and illnesses, the following PPE should be used at all times during mold
remediation:
§ Individually fitted respirator masks
§ Goggles without holes
§ 2 sets of gloves, tapped at the wrist
§ Boots
§ Full body protective suit
Mold Containment & HEPA Filters
Mold
spores can cross-contaminate other areas of your property whether they are dead
or alive. Simply touching a mold colony will cause spores to travel so
they can find a safer area to grow.
Certified
mold contractors use containment chambers to create a controlled environment
suitable for remediation. This ensures that spores that are discharged during mold mitigation will be contained within
this area. Even when mold is
dead, the remains can still cause health problems. A negative air filtration unit
will catch spores that are discharged and process them through a
commercial-grade HEPA filter. HEPA filters and air scrubbers are used to clean
spores and other particles out of the air. This is a standard process in Rainbow
International’s mold mitigation services.
EPA Mold Removal and Disposal
Practices
Many
people often wonder what happens to the contaminated materials after mold has been
removed. These questions are answered by the
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Like the IICRC, the EPA has
created a unique set of guidelines designed to protect those who are exposed to
mold. Certified mold remediation contractors must adhere to these EPA mold guidelines to ensure
the safety and health of their technicians and their clients. See more
information on mold on the EPA’s website: http://www.epa.gov/iaq/.
Since mold is a living organism and deeply
ingrains itself into materials to survive, it is best to dispose of any porous
building materials and personal belongings. Nonporous materials can be cleaned
with antimicrobial cleaners, and sealants may be used to make treated areas
more resistant. Rainbow International is able to determine which items are
salvageable and which need to be disposed of. Please note you may need
to have your heating and air conditioning systems professionally cleaned as
well too.
Reconstruction
The reconstruction process will begin after all
contaminated materials are removed and the spore counts inside your home are
the same as outside the home. In addition there shouldn't be mold in the home that isn't outside. Clean,
mold-free materials will replace what was previously contaminated.
Drying
Cleaned and repaired items should remain
thoroughly dry. Remember, excessive moisture is how the issue started. As a
result, your Rainbow International’s mold removal specialists will discuss
moisture management strategies to ensure your home doesn't encounter future
issues.
DID
YOU KNOW…..
It is impossible
to get rid of all mold spores indoors? Mold spores can always be found floating
through the air and in house dust. These mold spores are not a great cause for
concern and will not grow if moisture is not present. Indoor mold growth
can and should be prevented or controlled by controlling moisture
indoors.
If you believe you have a mold issue call Rainbows International's remediation professionals at 708.460.0911.
Tuesday, June 3, 2014
WARNING: Hail causing storms bring storm chasing contractors to the area!
Turn to your insurance company if you have property damage. Do not trust just anyone of the street. Storm chasing vehicles, soliciting phone calls, door to door salesmen and door hangers are swarming the Chicago land area.
Listen to the following message from the Oak Forest city clerk:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uY7MAuwUofQ&feature=youtu.be
The Chicago land area has been hit by numerous storms recently. These heavy hitting storms have brought hail to parts of the city and its surrounding suburbs. This warning applies to all cities of the Chicago land area.
The Chicago land area has been hit by numerous storms recently. These heavy hitting storms have brought hail to parts of the city and its surrounding suburbs. This warning applies to all cities of the Chicago land area.
Storm chasers from out of town join sites like the following so they can find out where hail producing storms have hit. http://hailtrace.com/ Many of these contractors are from out-of-state and are misrepresenting themselves and their activities. Before you know it there is a contractor at your door asking to inspect your roof for hail damage. They try to convince you to let them perform a free inspection on your roof. DO NOT allow a door to door contractor up on you roof! Legit businesses will get their phone to ring through advertising and referrals so they do not need to knock on doors.
Be wary of door to door storm chasers that show up at your property unannounced. These people were not sent out by your insurance company. These con artists use high pressure tactics and low ball pricing to get you to sign their contracts. Consumers are often informed they are signing documents that state the homeowner is giving them permission to go on their roof. Often enough people do not read the fine print and are unaware that they just signed a contract allowing the contractor to perform repairs to that property. These types of contracts typically include fine print that states you are allowing your insurance company to pay them directly for the repairs opposed to having the insurance proceeds sent directly to you. If you are not diligent in your research you may be locked into a contract and kissing your insurance proceeds goodbye. The contractor and your proceeds are then off to the next city never to be seen again. These types of companies often relocate so they are hard to track. By switching company names, phone numbers and business locations there is often no legit paper trail to follow.
Storm chasers will inflict damages to your roof if given the opportunity. They will then inform you that you indeed have hail damage and will try to convince you to file a claim. Many will even offer to waive your deductible if you allow them to fix your roof. Even if your deductible is waived you still have to file a claim which can ultimately effect you in the long run! Fraudulent claims are detected every day by insurance companies. Your claim will be denied and you will be reported so is it worth answering the door for these people?
This article is from 2010 but storm chasers continue to prey on people: http://www.illinoisattorneygeneral.gov/pressroom/2010_11/20101123.html.
Attorney General Contact Information:
http://illinoisattorneygeneral.gov/about/contacts.html
Please Note: The insurance company will ONLY cover and pay out for the areas that were damaged. This does not mean you will receive an entire new roof if only a few shingles were damaged. This is often a misconception when people file an insurance claim. Speak with your agent before filing a claim to avoid unpaid claims and view the C.L.U.E.
There are many residents who have legit hail claims that will be taken care of by the insurance company if they go through the proper channels. Home insurer State Farm said Illinois residents filed 26,000 claims due to damage from wind and hail in 2013. During this time State Farm paid out a total of $3 billion nationally over claims related to wind and hail damage. The state with the most wind and hail claims in 2013 was Texas, with 42,000. Georgia followed Illinois, with 25,000.
If you believe you have hail damage brought on by recent storms contact your insurance company and hire a professional. Research any company you choose to do business with. Verify that the company is licensed, bonded, insured and that they are associated with the Better Business Bureau. Rainbow International has been receiving numerous calls for roof inspections due to the recent storms. Insurance agents often contact Rainbow International to perform roof inspections for their client’s roofs. When storm chasers convince people to file an insurance claim we are often asked verify if there is legit hail damage or not. Trust your insurance company and not someone off the street. Rainbow International works hand in hand with all major insurance companies and will inspect your property if you believe you have hail damage.
Service Line: 708-460-0911
Email: info@rainbowrestore.net
Website: www.rainbowrestore.net
Email: info@rainbowrestore.net
Website: www.rainbowrestore.net
Tuesday, May 13, 2014
IMPORTANCE OF THERMAL CAMERAS IN THE RESTORATION FIELD
Thermal imaging cameras are a common tool in the home inspection industry and the property damage restoration field. This unique tool is commonly being used to verify building performance, determine insulation conditions, locate leaks, verify structure design and locate moisture intrusion. Thermal Imaging Cameras are a must have inspection tool for a fast and non-invasive method of locating unwanted water in building materials and hard-to-reach pockets of moisture. An infrared camera also documents temperatures by allowing us to save the images we are viewing. Primarily, thermal imaging cameras are used to identify thermal patterns so the conditions can be diagnosed and a plan can be executed.
Some examples of thermal imaging camera applications include:
Thermal imaging cameras are a common tool in the home inspection industry and the property damage restoration field. This unique tool is commonly being used to verify building performance, determine insulation conditions, locate leaks, verify structure design and locate moisture intrusion. Thermal Imaging Cameras are a must have inspection tool for a fast and non-invasive method of locating unwanted water in building materials and hard-to-reach pockets of moisture. An infrared camera also documents temperatures by allowing us to save the images we are viewing. Primarily, thermal imaging cameras are used to identify thermal patterns so the conditions can be diagnosed and a plan can be executed.
Some examples of thermal imaging camera applications include:
- Thermal heat loss in buildings
- Flat-roof leak detection for buildings
- Locate radiant heating wires or pipes
- Locate potential areas for mold growth
- Locate cooler temperatures that indicate hidden
moisture
Rainbow
International uses thermal imaging cameras for many different applications.
This tool is most commonly used to determine temperature differences within the
structure that indicate if moisture is present. Thermal imaging works by
capturing two-dimensional real time images of the materials surface
temperatures. Since water conducts and stores heat better than most building
materials these thermal images can quickly reveal areas that would not appear
wet to the untrained eye. Moist materials retain thermal energy differently,
allowing the camera to pick up the difference in temperature. Drywall and wood
have the ability to absorb and hold moisture so it is necessary to thoroughly
examine the extent of the moisture within all the materials surrounding the
source of the water damage. This picture from our recent mold class shows how a
thermal camera indicates warm and cool temperatures.
Thermal cameras DO NOT detect moisture or measure moisture directly, they simply show warmer and cooler zones which may indicate moist materials. Device's on the LCD display warm areas as red, cold areas as blue and other color combinations indicate temperatures in between. Cooler temperatures might not be associated with moisture in some cases so other equipment is then needed to confirm if there is an actual moisture issue. A difference in cooler temperatures can be the result of situations such as cool air from air conditioning, a lack of insulation within a wall cavity or a cold water line running through the area being measured.
Cooler temperatures that are identified as suspect wet materials are then tested further with moisture meters. Moisture meters are used to determine if there is moisture within the structure by measuring the amount of moisture beneath the surface. The use of both thermal cameras and moisture meters help us identify hidden moisture that can be treated to prevent mold.
Detecting hidden moisture is a critical aspect of the water restoration process. This requires the right equipment and a good understanding of building materials and how to effectively dry them. Rainbow International is a certified by the IICRC to properly restore your property after a water loss.
Tuesday, April 29, 2014
IMPORTANCE OF ROOF MAINTENANCE
Why is my roof leaking? There are many different reasons why
this could be happening. Some of these reasons may be claimable while
other reasons are due to maintenance issues that will not be covered by your
insurance company. Your roof is one of the most important parts of your
structure since it protects your whole house. Your home is possibly the biggest
investment you will ever make so maintain your roof to keep it
protected. Do not allow your roof to worsen overtime by leaving these
issues untreated. Contact Rainbow International to address your property
damage.
The Chicago land area seen a deep freeze this winter that
caused havoc to many roofs. Storm damage issues that were not addressed after
lasts falls storm have only worsened after this winter. We are expected to see
a few days of rain this week which will cause many of these damaged roofs to
leak.
Damages to your roof need to be addressed to prevent water from
entering the home. This will continue to happen if your roof is not properly
repaired. These damages will only worsen over time if your worn down roof sees
severe weather. Another reason to make repairs to your leaky roof is because it
can also lead to mold growth if water continues to enter the home and is left
untreated. Maintaining your roof is essential in protecting your home. Many
warranties can contain a clause that voids the warranty if you do not properly
maintain it. Annual roof maintenance should include a roof inspection to check your
shingles, flashing, chimney, skylight, roof ventilation and bathroom fan.
If you have a leak then you should also be inspecting for mold growth. Having a
roof inspection to identify maintenance issues can help you prevent costly
repairs in the future.
Roof Damages That Are Often Covered By Insurance:
- Wind damage
- Hail damage - Hail causes an estimated $1 billion in damage every year.
- Ice dams
Roof Damages That Are NOT Covered By Insurance:
- Maintenance & neglect related issues
- Fraudulent hail damage (self-inflicted or inflicted by storm chasers)
Things To Look For:
- Curling shingles - If the shingles are starting to curl or bubble then they are susceptible to tearing off during high winds.
- Deteriorating shingles - If notice a large amount of shingle granules in your gutters or near your down spout then this is often a sign that your shingles are nearing the end of their life span. These granules sit on the surface of a shingle see a lot of wear through years of severe weather.
- Missing shingles - Heavy storms or severe winds can pull shingles away from the roof.
- Flashing - Make sure your flashing is not rusted, damaged or missing.
- Stained shingles - If shingles are severely stained, streaked or excessively worn then they may need to be replaced.
- Attic - Check for water leakage that may be seeping in through your roof. This can cause staining as well as wood that may be rotting.
- Stained ceilings - Stains on the ceiling are often a good indicator that there is a moisture issue in that area. Moisture issues that are not addressed can lead to mold growth which can cause health concerns.
- Gutters - Gutters should be clear and free of debris. Things can build up over time that cause blockage in the gutter. If an entire gutter is blocked up then water cannot properly be directed away from the roof. This can cause water to settle in areas that can cause damage.
BE WARY OF DOOR TO DOOR STORM CHASERS THAT ASK TO INSPECT YOUR
ROOF. THESE PEOPLE WILL OFTEN INFLICT DAMAGES TO YOUR ROOF THEMSELVES BUT WILL
INFORM YOU THAT YOU HAVE HAIL DAMAGE. THEY WILL OFFER TO WAIVE YOUR DEDUCTIBLE
IF YOU ALLOW THEM TO FIX YOUR ROOF. FRAUDULENT CLAIMS ARE DETECTED
EVERY DAY. YOUR CLAIM WILL BE DENIED AND YOU WILL BE REPORTED. This
article is from 2010 but storm chasers continue to prey on people:
Rainbow International has been receiving numerous calls for inspections regarding leaking roofs and interior water damage. Insurance agents are often contact us to inspect their clients roofs. When storm chasers convince people to file an insurance claim we are often asked verify if there is legit hail damage or not. If you have a leaky roof or interior water damage contact Rainbow International to have your property inspected.
Wednesday, April 16, 2014
FLOOD DAMAGE vs. WATER DAMAGE
Understanding which losses are covered and which are not will help you take the necessary precautions to avoid uninsured water losses.
Understanding which losses are covered and which are not will help you take the necessary precautions to avoid uninsured water losses.
"Will my insurance
company cover my water loss" is what we are often asked? The type of
insurance policy you have and how the water entered your home will determine if
your water loss is covered. The two types of insurance policies that deal with
property damage resulting from water are a homeowner’s policy and a flood
insurance policy. Often one policy may cover what the other policy does not
cover.
HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE
A homeowner’s insurance policy does not cover
flood damage. Insurance companies
consider water damage has occurred when water has damaged your property before
the water has made contact with the ground. Not all water damage is covered
either. Depending on whether the water damage was caused by a covered peril, such as a
storm, or if the water damage was a result of maintenance on the homeowner’s
part can depend on whether the insurance company will choose to cover the loss.
Where the water originated ultimately determines whether a loss may be covered
or not.
Most
homeowners insurance policies are classified as HO-2, which covers 16 types of
damage, or HO-3, which covers any damage not specifically excluded, such as
floods. Both types of policies cover accidental water or steam discharges or
overflow from your plumbing, air-conditioning, and heating or automatic
fire-sprinkler systems or from appliances.
The typical homeowner’s policy
(HO-3, Special Form) covers all risks of direct physical loss to your property
including water damage. There are exclusions and limitations to
this policy though. Typically, your homeowner’s policy will pay for sudden and
accidental water damage from an inside water source. This policy does not pay
for losses caused by water that makes its way into your home from outside. In a HO-3 policy, Section I - Property Exclusions, it excludes “water damage”
caused by:
(1) Flood, surface water, waves, tidal water, tsunami, seiche, overflow of a body of water, storm surge or spray from any of these, whether or not driven by wind, including hurricane or similar storm.
(2) Release of water held by a dam, levee, dike or by a water or flood control device or structure.
(1) Flood, surface water, waves, tidal water, tsunami, seiche, overflow of a body of water, storm surge or spray from any of these, whether or not driven by wind, including hurricane or similar storm.
(2) Release of water held by a dam, levee, dike or by a water or flood control device or structure.
Although
flood damage isn't directly covered by your homeowners insurance the damage
left behind may be. An example of this would be if your home flooded and
looters stole your property after your family evacuated, then the theft is
covered even though it was indirectly caused by the flood.
FLOOD INSURANCE
A standard flood insurance policy
written by the National Flood Insurance Program provides coverage up to the
policy limit for damage caused by flood. The dictionary defines a
"flood" as a rising and overflowing of a body of water onto normally
dry land. For insurance purposes, the word "rising" in this
definition is the key to distinguishing flood damage from water damage.
Generally, damage caused by water that has been on the ground at some point
before damaging your home is considered to be flood damage.
National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP)
If your property is located in a floodplain and your community participates in the NFIP, you can purchase flood insurance coverage. Your lender may even require flood insurance as a condition of your loan. The NFIP is administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), which works closely with nearly 90 private insurance companies to offer flood insurance to property owners and renters through authorized property and casualty insurance agents. No other insurance will cover flood damage.
If your property is located in a floodplain and your community participates in the NFIP, you can purchase flood insurance coverage. Your lender may even require flood insurance as a condition of your loan. The NFIP is administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), which works closely with nearly 90 private insurance companies to offer flood insurance to property owners and renters through authorized property and casualty insurance agents. No other insurance will cover flood damage.
Examples
of flood damage include:
- The river banks overflow and wash into your home.
- Soil around the property has washed away and cannot absorb the water quickly enough to prevent water from entering the basement.
Primary reasons it is necessary
to exclude “flood” from a homeowners policy are:
- Flood losses are often devastating natural disasters that cause more property losses than any individual insurance company can financially withstand.
- Most surface water losses can be prevented with proper landscaping of a property that drains water away from structures. If these losses were covered, property owners would not go to the expense of preventative landscaping for the extreme weather events that occur in long cycles – like every ten, twenty or thirty years.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON WATER
DAMAGE
SUMP PUMP OVERFLOW
Nearly all policies
exclude or restrict water damage caused by the backup of sewers or drains. Typically it is
stated in Section I – Property Exclusions, that water damage is excluded if
caused by water or water-borne material which backs up through sewers or drains
or which overflows or is discharged from a sump, sump pump or related
equipment. This refers to
overflows of water from sewers and backups from drains. See the
article: Understand Sump Pump Overflow for more information.
CRACK IN FOUNDATION
According to homeowners (HO-3) policy, under Section I – Property Exclusions,
exclude “water damage” caused by water
below the surface of the ground, including that which exerts pressure on, or
seeps or leaks through a building, wall, bulkhead, sidewalk, driveway,
foundation, swimming pool, hot tub or spa, including their filtration and
circulation systems, or other structures. In order to keep homeowners policy
premiums low and affordable for everyone, coverage is not afforded to losses
that can be prevented by sound building practices or as a result of normal wear
and tear rather than sudden and accidental events.
Reasons
it is necessary to exclude “water below the surface” from a homeowners policy are:
- Current construction methods require the foundation to allow water to drain away from the home. Not all older homes have followed these methods. Due to the shifting of the soil and past rushes of water, water can then find a path to follow and collect underground and alongside of the home. If water intrusion, cracks in foundations, were covered by insurance then a home owner would have no incentive to correct the issue. This would bring an abundance of repeat claims after severe weather.
- Every homes foundation settles over time. This leaves cracks and eventually the foundations starts to slowly deteriorate. Sometimes property owners have to excavate around the foundation to place drain tiles and patch or re-seal the foundation and the basements concrete walls. If these issues were covered was covered then a home owner would have no incentive to correct the issue.
Please note that the
damage to your home as a result of a water loss is covered but the repair to
the actual component that failed is not covered by your insurance.
Example: Your homeowner’s
policy will pay for the necessary costs to gain access to make the repair and
to repair the damage caused by the water. The actual broken pipe that failed
due to wear and tear, decay, defective materials or methods of construction will
not be paid for by the insurance company. It is the homeowner’s responsibility
to replace these components.
When
water damage occurs, it is important that you locate a water restoration company that is well-trained and has the equipment to
completely dry your home as quickly as possible. Water damage is progressive
and items that could be restored within the first 48 hours of the water damage
may not be restored if emergency response is delayed. Rainbow International is a IICRC certified water
damage company can address any type of water damage. See photos of our work at: https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.211518835702126.1073741830.211496272371049&type=3
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)








