Leading Cause of Property Loss in Florida

Contrary to common wisdom that fire is the major cause of property loss, water damage is ten times as likely to cause property loss in Florida.

After examining the most common causes of water damage reported to insurance professionals, we have developed a number of easy steps homeowners can take to help avoid many non-weather-related water problems.

The following list provides preventive measures to help avoid the top four common causes of non-weather related water damage:

• Leaks from washing machine hoses: Washing machine hoses should be inspected annually and replaced immediately, if there are any signs of cracking or bulging.
• Leaky plumbing around water heaters: Plumbing should be inspected annually and repaired if there are any signs of leaks or corrosion. Water heaters should be installed in an area with floor drains to minimize damage if leaks should occur.
• Leaks from refrigerator ice machines: Ice maker connections, usually located behind the refrigerator, should be inspected and hoses replaced if they appear cracked or corroded.
• Clogged drain lines on air conditioning units: Air conditioning drain lines should be checked regularly in Florida, as a continuously running air conditioner produces a massive amount of water.

These problems are the responsibility of the home owner. This is why it is important for everyone to read and fully understand the terms and conditions of their insurance policy. Here in Florida, home owner need to be aware of exclusions that some insurance companies use and how they may affect a claim when and if water damage occurs.

Insurance policies often address Accidental Discharge or Overflow of Water or Steam when caused by one of the examples above. However, upon review of the policy you may learn that this peril does not include loss on the residence premises unless you have used reasonable care to:

1. Shut off the water supply
2. Drain the system and appliances of water.
3. It is important to read your policy conditions as well as exclusions.
4. Many policy forms indicate if there is constant or repeated seepage or leakage of water or steam which occurs over a period of 14 days or more, it will not be covered. Who is to say over what period of time the damage happened. If it is left up to the insurance company, an adjuster will come inspect the damage, run a few tests, and he/she will make that determination. Good luck with that!