Your homeowners insurance is written to cover many different kinds of perils. In most cases, a slab leak can fall into that category. Once the slab leak becomes obvious, you will need to find the cause and make the necessary repairs to control it so that there is no further damage. While you are waiting to file your claim, you will need to document the damage and clean the area as best you can to prevent mold. The faster you can start to get things under control, the better off you will be.
What Causes a Slab Leak?
The slabs that make up your basement floor and walls are made of thick concrete. Many of your home’s large pipes run under the slab from your home to the highway or street. If one of these pipes should break, the water that is released would put pressure on the concrete slab, causing it to crack or split. This will allow the water underneath to find its way into your home. The influx of water can damage both the structure of your home as well as your personal property. Slab leaks can be large, so containing them quickly is a must.
Are Both Repairs and Damages Covered by My Homeowners Insurance?
In most cases, your homeowners insurance will cover the cost to repair your slab and other structural aspects of your home. Repairs to the plumbing may not be included. Part of the reason for this has to do with the utility company and what they may be responsible for. If it is determined that the slab leak was caused by general wear and tear, it will be listed as a maintenance issue and is unlikely to be covered by your homeowners policy.
Which Type of Coverage Will Take Care of the Costs?
The two main types of homeowners coverage to consider in this situation are dwelling and personal property coverage. The dwelling portion of your policy will cover the slab and any other repairs, but it’s unlikely to cover repairs for the plumbing that caused the original problem. When it comes to the damage to your possessions, personal property coverage will be used. These types of coverage will kick in after you have paid your initial deductible. Make sure to read through your policy to find out what exactly is covered.
Slab leaks can be messy and seem to occur when you least expect them. Checking your slab occasionally may help, but a leak may appear out of nowhere.
If you are looking for homeowners insurance, contact the experts at Weaver & Associates in Arcadia, California, today!