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“At AOA West we understand that our customers are not insurance experts and often don’t want to think about it. While we do recommend that customers have a general knowledge of the protections they have/need we also realize that you trust us (your agent) to help you navigate through the insurance process. Below is some valuable insight to begin. Click on any media item below to get started, and check back from time-to-time for new topics!”

Home Coverage Review

Stop Distracted Driving: Speak Up

Water Loss

Which water loss coverages should homeowners consider?

Most homeowners are at sea when it comes to choosing the right coverage for water damage. They hardly know what their base home policies cover, let alone what optional water loss coverages might be needed. That confusion can be exasperating and costly for customers in the event of a loss, which means the right decision at the time of purchase is critical.

First, know the difference:

	Base policy: Coverage for sudden, accidental releases of water that emanate from inside the home, or water damage resulting from a covered loss. Example: A burst pipe, water heater or dishwasher suddenly leaks onto the floor and is discovered within 14 days.
	Base policy: Coverage for sudden, accidental releases of water that emanate from inside the home, or water damage resulting from a covered loss. Example: A pipe leaks within the walls and isn't discovered until 14 days or more
	Water backup: Coverage for damage from water backing up from off the property into the home due to clogs, blockages or a failed sump pump. Example: Water originating off premises backs up into the tub or toilet because of a blockage in the city sewer line.
	Service line: Coverage for physical loss or damage to covered service lines on the residence premises that is the direct result of a service line failure. Example: The water line between city property and the home ruptures, causing water to flow over the yard.

Next, ask questions to uncover the need

Some home characteristics could indicate a need for additional water damage coverages.

	How old is the home? As plumbing ages, decay may go undetected until a small leak causes severe damage to a surrounding wall or ceiling. Water seepage or leakage could cover the cost of tearing out and replacing any part of a building necessary to repair the system or appliance where the leak began, including direct coverage for fungi.
	Do you have a basement? Water backup would provide protection in the event water backs up a drain or sump pump. Consider higher limits to cover higher mitigation costs if the basement is finished.
	Are there trees on the property? Large trees can wreak havoc on service lines and block drains. Having service line coverage could mitigate some of the risks associated with tree roots.
	What kind of heating and cooling do you have? Leaking water in radiant heating systems and condensation within air conditioning ducts can both result in water damage within a home’s flooring or walls. Seepage or leakage coverage offers protection for these situations.