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Natural disasters can cause significant damage to a home and its surroundings. This includes outdoor items such as patio furniture and children’s playsets. Homeowners in Kingwood, WV should take time to understand how flood insurance and other policies work before damage occurs, so they can ensure their belongings are protected.
What Caused the Damage?
Flooding often occurs at the same time as wind and storm damage, but it is important to confirm the actual cause of the loss. For example, if a storm causes both flooding and a fallen tree and the tree damages your playset, this would be a homeowner’s insurance claim, not a flood insurance claim. Determining the correct cause of damage helps ensure your claim is filed with the right policy.
Flooding Criteria
Flood insurance has specific criteria that determine what qualifies as a flood. In most cases, at least two acres of land or two or more properties must be affected by rising water. Flooding that is limited to your yard may not meet this definition. Damage caused by backed‑up sewage is also typically excluded. To be considered a flood, the water must rise from the ground due to heavy rain or another natural event.
Since criteria vary among insurers, it is important to speak with an agent at Smith Insurance Agency of West Virginia to understand how your specific policy defines flooding.
Other Structures Coverage
If floodwater damages your playset or washes it away, the loss may be covered by flood insurance. However, your policy must include coverage for other structures. Some policies only cover the main home, including the walls and foundation. Others include structures such as sheds, detached garages, and playsets.
Working with an agent at Smith Insurance Agency of West Virginia is the best way to make sure you have the right protection in place. Contact us today to learn more. We proudly serve the Kingwood, WV area.
