Weather-Related Liability

11/13/2019 (Permalink)

Weather-Related Liability

You probably think about weather-related insurance claims in terms of damage to your home, but liability can be a concern as well. There is a risk that if you don't properly maintain your property, other people could get injured and you'd be liable. Fortunately, your home insurance covers liability as well.

For example, if the mail carrier slips on ice on your walkway and gets hurt, or if snow or ice falls from your roof and injures a person below, you could be held responsible.

To avoid these situations, make sure you properly maintain your property, keeping sidewalks clear and removing hazards like dead tree branches as soon as you can.

Any time an accident occurs on your property, the first step you should take is to contact your insurance company, even if you think it's not your fault. The insurance company can then get involved to help you and give advice on the next steps. They may help with legal defense costs if needed, as well.

Make Weather-Related Claims as Soon as Possible

If you notice weather-related damage to your home, call your insurance company right away. Most insurance companies have 24-hour phone numbers you can call in an emergency.

Insurance does not cover gradual damage, so leaving things like leaking water until later could cost you a lot of money. When you alert your insurance company, they can send out an emergency crew to help you prevent further damage.

In fact, in many cases, the relationships insurance carriers have with contractors and service providers mean you'll get assistance much faster through your insurer than if you try to call the providers yourself.

Your priority should be preventing further damage to your home, and your insurance company will expect you to take reasonable steps to do this.

https://www.thebalance.com/weather-water-damage-home-insurance-coverage-3862186

SERVPRO of Grand Prairie is here for all of your mitigation and restoration needs