We had a dry start to July across much of the Eastern United States and then the pattern flipped just after the midway point of the month. Over the past several weeks, waves of rain, often torrential, have drenched our valley. As many as eight to twelve inches of rain were recorded one week in July and much more has hit various parts of Pennsylvania since then. Places that saw a desert-like start to July ended up surpassing July rainfall records and even all-time monthly tallies. This type of rain not only closes your favorite amusement park; it can also cause significant damage to your home and property. Our phones have been busy with calls from homeowners that have water in their basement, driveway washouts, and water backup from sump pump failures.
When Does Homeowner's Insurance Not Cover Water Damage?
Although a standard homeowner policy covers many types of damage, there are several types of water damage caused by excessive rain that are not typically covered:
- Ground water seepage (i.e. through basement walls)
- Water backup or sump overflow (although this can be added to most policies)
- Surface water runoff
- Floods like the photo at Knoebels above
Whether or not you live in a high risk flood area, a homeowner policy won't cover water damage resulting from a flood. For that, you'll need to purchase separate flood insurance. Find more information about homeowner insurance.
Flood Insurance
Flood insurance isn't just for Pennsylvania residents who live in a designated floodplain. Flood insurance may also cover damages from certain types of groundwater runoff that are typically excluded by your homeowner policy. Most home lenders require flood insurance for property located in a designated floodplain. Homeowners who do not live in a floodplain can also purchase it. Call or contact our office to find out if flood insurance is a good idea for you. One of the flood insurance professionals at Meixell - Diehl Insurance would be happy to help you.
We can write coverage through either the National Flood Insurance Program or an alternative Private Market Flood program. Learn More.