Today, we’re seeing more winter weather that we thought was behind us, but spring weather is just around the corner! What does that mean for you, besides sandals and shorts? It’s time to check all of your downspouts, your sump pump and other water drainage around your home.

  • Be sure to take the time to make sure all of your downspouts have piping to divert melting snow and rain water away from your home. A simple $30 corrugated pipe, that diverts water away from your home, can accomplish this. 
  • If you notice any puddling around the perimeter of your home, you may need to consult a professional landscaper to address the possibility of adding drainage relief, or re-grading.
  • Inspect and test your basement or crawlspace sump pump. If your sump pump pit is not a sealed unit, you can typically test the operation of your sump pump by pulling up on the float. If you pump does not engage when lifting the float, there is a problem with your sump pump. You may need to consult a plumber and or an electrician to troubleshoot the sump pump’s failure to operate. Be cautious if you are inspecting your sump pump yourself. If there is a short in any wiring, there is potential for electrocution. The safest bet is to call an electrician or plumber to service your sump pump.
  • Take the time now, rather than after disaster strikes, to contact your homeowner’s insurance agent, to confirm that you have coverage for sewer backup and sump pump coverage. Often times, agents will cut this from the policy, as they are trying to provide the least expensive option. Generally speaking, the additional cost per month for sewer backup and sump pump coverage is very minimal, especially when compared to the cost of water damage cleanup services.

With regards to your homeowner’s insurance policy, water damage occurring from a source outside of your home, typically isn’t covered, not matter what type of policy you have in place. Due to this “rule”, addressing the drainage around your home is crucial. You can purchase separate flood insurance for this type of occurrence, but you may not be happy with the type of coverage.

If you do have a water damage claim, remember that it is always your choice as to which company you hire. Don’t be bullied by your insurance company into thinking that you must use their “preferred” contractor. Pro Clean can handle your water damage from start to finish, and will make sure that you receive every dollar you are entitled to. YOU are our client, not the insurance company.

Pro Clean is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to handle your water damage claim and assure that you are treated fairly and your home and its contents are back to pre-loss conditions, if not better. Add our phone number to your contact list, as you never know when water or fire damage may occur.  If you have a smart phone, we have a system coming that will make it even easier for you to contact us in the unfortunate case of water or fire damage.

Please share this post with a friend or family member. They will thank you if they, unfortunately, happen to have a homeowners claim.

Thank you for stopping by to read!

 

Water damage, sump pumps and your homeowners insurance