Water Company Accidentally Damaged Pipe
The water company was working on the service line for our uphill neighbor when they inadvertently broke a pipe, causing my yard to flood. Unfortunately, some of the water made its way into our laundry room, which may have damaged our washer and dryer. I suspect the water entered through the vent in the glass block basement window. The water company is sending their insurance agent over, but I’m unsure if I should contact our homeowners insurance as well. I want to make them aware of the situation, but I’m concerned about potential rate increases or losing coverage. Any advice you can offer would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!
I’m sorry to hear about the flooding in your home. It’s understandable to be concerned about how this situation might affect your homeowners insurance. Since the water company is sending their own insurance agent, it’s a good sign that they may take responsibility for the damage.
Here are a few steps you can consider taking:
Document Everything: Take photos and videos of the damage, including any flooding, affected areas, and your washer and dryer. This documentation will be helpful for both your records and when dealing with insurance.
Contact Your Homeowners Insurance: It’s a good idea to inform your homeowners insurance about the incident, even if you’re worried about potential rate increases. They can advise you on the best course of action and help you understand your coverage in situations like this.
Talk to the Water Company: Since they are sending their insurance agent, make sure to communicate with them about the damages and any actions you want to take. They might cover the costs for repairs and replacement of damaged items.
Seek a Professional Assessment: Consider having a professional assess the damage and provide you with a detailed report, which can be useful for insurance claims.
Review Your Policy: Take some time to review your homeowners policy or speak with your agent about what is covered in situations like these. Knowing what your options are will help you make informed decisions.
Ultimately, keeping your homeowners insurance agent in the loop is a good practice, as they can guide you through the process without necessarily needing to file a claim right away. Good luck, and I hope you’re able to resolve the situation quickly!