It doesn’t take long for Tampa property owners to learn just how picky insurance companies can be. Not every loss is viable in their books, and it’s up to you to know what is and what isn’t covered. Don’t set yourself up for failure by expecting a full payment for an uncovered loss. Do yourself a favor and learn what counts as uncovered loss and why your insurer might hit you with a denial letter for “pre-existing” damage.
Think your damage claim was wrongfully denied? Reach out to Altieri Insurance Consultants Sarasota so we can get your life back!
What Constitutes “Uncovered Loss” In Property Insurance?
In the most basic terms, an uncovered loss is any loss that’s not listed as a covered peril on your insurance policy. That might narrow it down for you, but even then, it’s not always so simple. For instance, “water damage” can have seemingly endless meanings, but excludes flooding. Today, we’re going over uncovered loss from pre-existing damage, which is an extremely common occurrence among Sarasota property owners.
Where do you draw the line between covered water damage and pre-existing water damage? Water damage has always been a gray area in the insurance industry because many times there has been a slow accumulation of damage over time, as opposed to a singular event. For example, a pipe leak hidden behind drywall that results in spotting, versus a pipe break. Many of these damages also occur when the property owner has neglected proper care and maintenance of the building.
The Reason Why Property Insurers Don’t Cover All Losses
Fraud can work both ways, which is why insurance companies in Sarasota feel the need to buckle down on what they approve as a covered loss (and what they deny as an uncovered loss) for water damage claims.
Without these tight regulations, property owners might take advantage of receiving reimbursement for damages that were technically their fault. One might put off repairs for wear and tear on the property and try to cash in on free repair costs when filing their water damage claim. The bad news for you? Your water damage claim can be denied just as easily, even when you meant no ill will.
Is This Why My Damage Claim Was Denied?
The easiest way for insurance companies to sort through the “bad eggs” is by denying anyone who can’t prove regular maintenance of their property. Since pre-existing damage is typically due to neglect, having a maintenance receipt is one way to rule out that possibility. If you feel that your insurer still denied your water damage claim wrongfully, you can hire a public adjuster in Sarasota to help you with an appeal.
Identifying “Wear and Tear” (Uncovered) Property Damage
What does uncovered “pre-existing” damage look like, exactly? Here are some common examples:
- Leaks that have been left unattended for a period of time.
- Seepage that has developed into mold over time.
- Pipe freezes or bursts from a lack of heat or insulation in the property.
- Cheap, cosmetic spot repairs on broken parts from years ago.
What’s the common thread here? Timeliness is key. Delaying or procrastinating repairs for too long can result in a denied water damage claim. Learn more about what types of water damage are covered under insurance in Sarasota so you can see that reimbursement check you deserve!
Tips For Preventing Wear and Tear Property Damage
- Have your property’s pipe system inspected regularly.
- Repair pipes and drains as soon as possible.
- Don’t forget your roofing and exterior walls.
- Install leak detectors and automatic shut-off systems.
- Keep a clear route to your water main at all times.
Looking to Appeal a Claim Denial, Or Prevent Future Denials? Schedule a Consultation With Altieri Insurance Consultants Sarasota Today!
Don’t fall victim to uncovered loss. From pre-loss planning to appealing denied water damage claims, Altieri Insurance Consultants Sarasota is the partner property owners rely on! Call us today at (813) 247-4757 to see how we can help you with expert water damage claims services.
