When your commercial property is sitting in water, your first thought is "damage." But in the world of insurance, the source of that water is everything. You might use the terms "flood damage" and "water damage" interchangeably, but to your insurance carrier, they are completely different events with different policies. Understanding this distinction is the first and most critical step to a successful claim. Here’s what you need to know from Triton Renovation. Contact us today.
Flood Damage vs. Water Damage: Understanding the Difference for Your Insurance Claim
Flood Damage vs. Water Damage: Understanding the Difference for Your Insurance Claim
Water Damage Comes from Inside
From an insurer's point of view, water damage originates from a source inside your building. Think of a burst pipe, a leaking HVAC system, a toilet overflow, or a failed appliance. This type of damage is generally covered under a standard commercial property insurance policy. When you're dealing with this scenario, you'll be seeking commercial water damage restoration to repair the affected areas and mitigate any further issues.
Flood Damage Comes from Outside
Flood damage is defined as water from a natural source that inundates normally dry land. This includes events like overflowing rivers, coastal storm surges, or heavy, pooling rainwater from a severe storm. This type of damage is almost universally excluded from standard property insurance and requires a separate flood insurance policy. To recover from this, you'll specifically need commercial flood damage restoration services.
The Difference is Crucial for Your Claim
Filing a claim for "flooding" after a pipe burst will lead to a swift denial, causing significant delays and frustration. A professional assessment is vital to correctly identify the water's source and document the damage accurately for your claim. An experienced commercial restoration company can pinpoint the cause, ensuring you file under the correct policy and begin the right type of commercial damage restoration immediately.
GET A FREE QUOTE
Navigating an insurance claim is complex, but knowing the difference between flood and water damage puts you in control. If your property has been affected, contact Triton Renovation. Our experts in commercial restoration can provide a rapid assessment and manage the entire restoration process, ensuring you get back to business faster. Give us a call today.