How Water and Flood Damage Differ

7/1/2021 (Permalink)

Water damage and flood damage are two different things according to the insurance adjusters who handle the liability and coverage of whatever damage scenario is bought to their attention. The difference between them is where the water comes from. Water damage is caused by water entering from inside the home, from the pipes that back your running water outlets. Flood damage is when water comes from a natural source like mudslides, accumulated rain runoff, and overflow of tidal waters. Flood damage also includes two or more properties. The caliber of flood damage is much bigger than that of water damage, which is why insurance adjusters classify it as a different disaster. 

Flood damage is not covered by your home insurance, only water damage. Here in California it is less likely for you to experience flood damage, but that doesn't mean it’s impossible. If you live in an area vulnerable to flooding like near the beach or by a hill that is prone to mudslides, it’d be in your favor to discuss with the property owner filing for flood insurance. This can be done at www.floodsmart.gov.

Here at SERVPRO it is in our best interest to keep you updated and informed about how you can best prepare for natural disaster damage. For more information, feel free to give us a call at (949) 429-3188.