As a homeowner, it’s essential to understand what is and isn't covered by your homeowner's insurance policy. Although insurance seems to be our protection, the companies behind your policy aren’t always on your side!
One of the many uncommon issues that can cause significant damage to your home is a slab leak, which occurs in the pipes located under the concrete foundation of a home, often known as the “slab”. As you could imagine, a leak in the very foundation of your home can be extremely expensive and complex to repair!
The last thing anyone wants is unexpected damage that isn’t covered. So, in today’s article, we will be explaining the dangers of slab leaks, if they are covered by your insurance and the importance of reviewing your policy regularly.
Unsure of what kind of policy you have? Give Liberty Adjusters a call today, and we will gladly walk you through your policy for free!
The Dangers of Slab Leaks
As we briefly explained, slab leaks are leaks that occur in the plumbing located beneath the concrete foundation of your home. These leaks can occur in both hot and cold water lines and can cause damage to your foundation, flooring, and walls.
If the leak goes undetected for a prolonged period of time, it will allow water to seep through the foundation and into the flooring & walls. This can cause the walls to become damp, which can lead to mold growth and structural damage!
Plus, this can erode the soil beneath your foundation, causing it to shift or sink and resulting in cracks in the walls or floors, compromising the structural integrity of your home.
Signs of a Slab Leak
Because these pipes are tucked away in the concrete of your foundation, you won’t find many signs of the leak occurring until the damage is done. Here are some to look out for:
Higher water bills
Low water pressure
Damp or warm spots on the floor
Cracks in the walls or floors
Mold or mildew growth
Sounds of running water with no visible culprit
A sudden decrease in the hot water supply
If you suspect that you have a slab leak, don’t wait! The longer the leak goes untreated, the more damage it can cause. You should immediately shut off the water to your home and contact a plumber to locate and repair the leak.
Are Slab Leaks Covered by Homeowner’s Insurance?
Whether or not a slab leak is covered by your homeowner's insurance policy can depend on a few factors. Generally, if the leak is sudden and accidental, it may be covered by your policy. However, if the leak is a result of wear and tear or neglect, it may not be covered.
It’s essential to read your policy carefully to understand what is covered and what is not. Some policies may require additional coverage to cover slab leaks.
Am I At Risk for a Slab Leak?
Unfortunately, everyone with a home on a concrete foundation is at risk for a slab leak. They can occur due to various reasons, such as faulty installation of pipes, aging pipes, and damage caused by soil movement.
Additionally, the presence of hard water, which is water that has a high mineral content, can increase the likelihood of slab leaks due to pipe corrosion.
Understand Your Policy with the Help of Liberty Adjusters
Understanding the coverage of your homeowners' insurance policy can help you prepare for unexpected events such as slab leaks. While homeowners' insurance policies generally cover the damage caused by slab leaks, it all depends on the limitations and exclusions in your specific policy.
Don’t stress though! Our loss adjusters are policy experts! We’ll take a look at your insurance policy for free and let you know what coverages you are missing. In the event that your home is damaged, whether by a slab leak or something else, make sure to call Liberty Adjusters before filing your claim. We’ll walk you through every step of the claims process and get you the payout you deserve.
Lean on Liberty Adjusters! Give us a call today or submit your claim online.