Home insurance: how to get reimbursed in the event of water damage?

Home insurance: how to get reimbursed in the event of water damage?


Leaks, infiltrations ... Have you been the victim of water damage in your property? Don't panic, this damage is covered by your comprehensive home insurance. What are the steps to take to be reimbursed? We get back to you.
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Home insurance: how to get reimbursed in the event of water damage?
Water damage: compensation procedures vary depending on the insurer. © cerro_photography
Summary

    What does the water damage guarantee cover?
    How to react in the event of water damage in your home?
    Water damage: how to make your declaration to your insurer?
    Have an amicable report filled out to speed up compensation
    Water damage: is an expertise still necessary?
    How is the compensation paid out in the event of water damage?

What does the water damage guarantee cover?

As part of your comprehensive home insurance (MRH), the water damage guarantee aims to cover damage related to the action of water. Water damage insurance, damage resulting from leaks, broken pipes, blockages, spills or even overflows are generally covered. It also covers infiltration through roofs and by the seals around sanitary installations and through tiles, when these infiltrations result from the use of a sanitary device (sink, shower, etc.). It should be noted that certain risks are sometimes excluded by insurers. This is why it is essential to check which guarantees are covered by your contract and which are the cases of exclusion. Finally, it should be noted that if insurance against water damage is optional for owners, it is nevertheless compulsory for tenants.

To be compensated, be sure to comply with the prevention and safety measures provided for in your insurance contract.
How to react in the event of water damage in your home?

If you are the victim of water damage in your home, it is essential to act quickly. If the source of the water damage is in your house or apartment, remember to turn off the water tap. If the loss is significant, also cut off the electricity to avoid any electrical risk. Once the cause of the damage has been determined, have the repairs carried out as soon as possible to avoid further damage. Depending on the source of the leak, tell your neighbors and the property manager quickly if you live in an apartment. Remember to keep the proof of repair of the leak. Indeed, the insurer and the expert need a maximum of indications to estimate the damages. Before carrying out the restoration of the wall and floor coverings, you will have to wait for the visit of the expert or the prior agreement of your insurer.
Water damage: how to make your declaration to your insurer?

In the event of water damage in your home, you must notify your insurer within 5 days of the loss. The contact details of the insurance company are indicated on your receipts and your insurance contract. Depending on the case, you can make your declaration by telephone, on the internet or by going directly to the insurer's agency. However, it is advisable to send your claim to your insurer by registered letter with acknowledgment of receipt. This letter must specify your contact details, your contract number, the description of the incident, the condition of the destroyed or damaged objects and furniture, the description of the damage, the damage caused to third parties as well as the contact details of any victims.