Is Internal Damage Covered by Home Insurance?

What is internal damage, and is it protected by your home insurance?

When you think about the coverage offered by your homeowners insurance in Carrollton, Texas, you probably imagine it protecting against sudden, unavoidable emergencies like storms and fires.  However, many homeowners wonder if their policy will cover the damage that occurs inside the home without some external catalyst.  Here’s what you need to know about common types of internal damage and if it is covered by your home insurance.

  • Water Damage

Your home insurance may offer coverage for water damage depending on how the damage occurred.  For instance, if water damage is the result of an unforeseen issue, such as a burst pipe, then your policy will likely offer coverage.  Additionally, if water damage is caused by a faulty appliance, then your policy will probably cover the damage, but will not pay to repair or replace the appliance.  Water damage caused by neglect or gradual issues will not be covered by your insurance. Water damage caused by rising water is always excluded from coverage.

  • Mold

Mold is considered a type of water damage.  So, if mold is caused by a sudden accident, then it may be covered by your homeowners insurance.  However, mold removal is not covered if it is the result of a flood, ground seepage, or poorly maintained pipes that start to leak.  As a general rule, mold infestations that breakout due negligence are your responsibility and will not be covered by your homeowners insurance.

  • Pet Damage

Typically, your homeowners insurance will not cover any damage that your pet has caused to your home or personal belongings.  Most standard home policies specifically exclude coverage for damages caused by pets or domestic animals (including insects and rodents).  However, the personal liability portion of your home insurance will offer coverage for the damage or injuries that your pet causes to a third-party.

This is what you need to know about common types of internal damage and your homeowners insurance in Carrollton, Texas.  Do you have additional questions about your coverage?  If so, then contact the experts at Mike Leonard Insurance Agency.  Our dedicated team is eager to find you the right coverage from one of our many carriers, including: Kemper, MetLife, Nationwide, Travelers, Safeco Insurance, Progressive, and American Strategic Insurance.