Is it Flooding or Is it Water Damage Affecting Your Port Ewen Home?

10/29/2020 (Permalink)

Both can cause issues in your home, but it's important to understand the differences between flooding and water damage!

There are quite a few distinct differences between the 2 water events. Here’s some helpful info so you know what your homeowner’s insurance policy will govern as to what is and isn’t covered for remediation and restoration.

*It’s important to speak with your insurance agent BEFORE there is a water issue of any kind so you are clear what coverage you have and don’t have. Each policy and insurance carrier are different, your local agent is a great resource for this type of information.

While the terms “water damage” and “flood damage” are terms often used easily, the truth is they have some differences that are important to know in remedying the damage. While all water damage situations should be treated quickly, knowing the cause of the damage will help in order to begin remediations to your Ulster County home.

-What Is a Flood? A flood is a temporary event that results in partial or complete water coverage on an area consisting of at least two acres or across at least two properties. If the water is caused by any of the sources below, the chances are good that you’re dealing with flood damage: 

-Any source of runoff or surface water that has accumulated quickly

-Mudflow

-Excess of inland or tidal water

-A collapse of land as a result of erosion or undermining, caused by excessive waves or currents that result in a flood. 

What Is Water Damage? Water damage and flood damage may seem quite similar, but there are distinct differences. You may have water damage instead of flood damage if: 

-The water source is from inside your home (a pipe leak or burst, a malfunctioning appliance or a water line problem).

-You are the only person affected (unless you live in a multi-unit building like a condo or apartment where more than one floor is affected from the source inside yours or their homes).

-The above list of flooding examples isn’t the source of the water

If any of these factors apply, you may be dealing with water damage instead of flood damage. However, if two or more properties are involved or a large portion of your land is affected, you may be dealing with a flood instead. 

Protect Against Water and Flood Damage 

Regardless of whether the damage is from a flood or from water, you’ll want to do your best to safeguard your home against it.

Some of the ways you can do this are: 

* Check areas prone to water damage regularly—basements, attics and bathrooms to name a few.

* Understand the flood alert system to be aware of your risks 

* Be aware of the types of flood insurance available to you, as it is typically not included in homeowner’s policies. 

*Consider a sump pump in your basement if your home is prone to water intrusion. However, a generator back up might be needed in the case of power outages to keep the sump pump working.

If you’ve been affected by any type of flood or water damage, we are here to help. Our trained technicians are ready to respond 24/7, no matter the cause. We’ll help make it "Like it never even happened."