My pipes burst. Am I covered under my home insurance?
When there is a snowstorm, pipes can freeze, causing water to build between the ice blockage and faucet. The high water pressure can eventually rupture the pipe. Pipes are at higher risk of bursting when they are in unheated interior areas such as basements, crawl spaces, and attics. Don’t be scared to use your water! Letting the water run will help reduce the chance of your pipes bursting. But yes, most standard home policies cover bursting pipes. Unless of course, the home was left vacant for a long period.
High MPH wind blew a branch from your tree and damaged your neighbor’s home. Are you liable?
No. YOUR home insurance covers YOUR house, not your neighbor’s. They may not be happy with the situation, but the claim would have to be filed under their home insurance policy.
You drove over black ice and slid into another car. Are you responsible?
Unfortunately, yes. It remains the driver’s responsibility to keep their vehicle under control no matter the road conditions. Although, no one can control the weather, or black ice, extra precautions must be taken when weather is at its worst. If you are to slide into another car due to icy roads, your collision coverage will take the reins. It would pay for damage to your vehicle, minus your deductible, and the liability/medical portion of the other driver’s damage and injuries up to your liability limits.
There was a power outage and now your perishable foods are inedible. Will your home insurance pick up the tab for the spoiled contents of your freezer?
It depends. The cause of the power outage will determine if you’ll be reimbursed. If you were to accidentally cut your power line, no, you would not be covered. If a winter ice storm were to come through and cause a power outage, yes, you would be covered.
Also, keep in mind that filing a food spoilage claim might not be worth the trouble. With most standard home policies having a $500 deductible, the value of the food may not equal out that much. And you wouldn’t want the claim on your record.
An icicle fell on your car and caused damage. Will the auto insurance cover the damages?
This is when your comprehensive coverage takes place. Comprehensive coverage protects your car against damages that are not related to a collision.
Written by Marketing Manager: Kenzi Williams