I accidentally caused a flood in my hotel room due to an overflowing tub, and I’m wondering if my renters insurance will cover it.
While staying at a hotel, I decided to take a bath. I went to the living room to watch some TV and completely forgot that I had the tub running. Unfortunately, it overflowed for about 30 minutes, resulting in flooding in the bathroom and some water damage to the carpet.
When I realized what happened, I attempted to soak up the water with towels. The hotel front desk contacted me after the people below reported water damage. Maintenance came to assess the situation, began the cleanup, and relocated me to another room. They mentioned that they would evaluate the damage and that their risk management team would follow up with me.
I currently have renters insurance that includes $100,000 in personal liability coverage. Since this incident was accidental, I’m curious if it would be covered under Personal Liability, and whether my insurance extends to hotel stays.
Should I wait for the hotel to provide an invoice for the damages before filing a claim with my insurance, or should I contact my insurance company right away?
Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank you!
I’m sorry to hear about the situation! When it comes to your renters insurance, coverage can vary based on the specific policy, so it’s important to review the terms of your plan. Generally speaking, personal liability coverage may cover accidental damage you cause to someone else’s property, but since you were staying at a hotel, the interpretation can be a bit complex.
Here are a few steps you can take:
Review Your Policy: Check your renters insurance policy to see if it includes any specific provisions for damages that occur to properties you’re temporarily staying in, like a hotel. Some policies may exclude coverage for rented accommodations.
Contact Your Insurance Provider: It’s a good idea to reach out to your insurance company as soon as possible. They can provide you with detailed information on whether this specific incident would be covered under your policy. Be sure to explain the situation thoroughly.
Wait for the Hotel’s Assessment: The hotel’s risk team will likely conduct an assessment and provide an invoice for the damages. It might be prudent to wait for this before filing your claim, as it will give you a clearer picture of the extent of the damage and the cost, making it easier to discuss with your insurer.
Document Everything: Take photos of the damage and keep records of any communications with both the hotel and your insurance company. This documentation can support your claim.
Consider Liability Limits: Ensure you understand the liability limits of your insurance policy, as these can impact whether you’re fully covered for the damages caused.
Ultimately, it’s best to get in touch with your insurance provider to discuss the next steps and determine the best course of action for your situation. Good luck!