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Flood Damage DOES Occur in Pennsylvania

No one likes to think about the possibility of flood damage occurring to their home or property, and many people have a false sense that they are not subject to flooding because of the area they live in or the way their property is situated. The reality, however, is that flooding can occur anywhere and in Pennsylvania, it is not just bodies of water but also weather conditions that contribute to flooding. Heavy rains, hurricanes, and winter runoff can all lead to flood damage. 

The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) defines flooding as "a general and temporary condition during which the surface of normally dry land is partially or completely inundated. Two adjacent properties or two or more acres must be affected." Flood damage and water damage, such as that caused by broken pipes, are different issues and insurance claims for each are handled in very different manners. According to Adjusting Today, flooding can result from "overflow of inland or tidal waters; unusual and rapid accumulation or runoff from any source, such as heavy rainfall; incidence of mudslides or mud flows caused by flooding, which are comparable to a river of liquid and flowing mud; and/or collapse or destabilization of land along the shore of a lake or other body of water, resulting from erosion or the effect of waves or water currents exceeding normal, cyclical levels."  

The damage from the water and mud itself is not the only aspect of flood damage to consider. One must also take into account the fact that mold often results from flooding, and can be a significant source of concern and destruction, as well as a potentially serious health hazard. What ensues may also include an infestation of bacteria, insects, snakes, and rodents. This can have a major impact on property insurance claims. 

Its important when handling such a complex situation to have a professional assist you in preparing your insurance claim following flood damage. Wayne Pike Adjusters has the expertise and experience to maximize your insurance settlement while minimizing the stress and time involved for you. 

Home Inventories

When damage occurs to your home, whether as a result of weather, vandalism, or a structural problem, you have enough on your mind without worrying about preparing a comprehensive home inventory. Professionals advise preparing and maintaining a home inventory as a general standard, as opposed to only in response to a problem. Documentation in the form of photographs or a videotape, in addition to a written list, can be helpful in the event that you need to file an insurance claim at some point in the future. It is recommended that the following items be documented:

Factors Involved in Estimating the Cost of Repairs

A variety of factors are involved in the estimated and actual costs of home repairs after damage has occurred. Your insurance policy will specify coverage and limitations, but it is in your best interest to have your insurance claim reviewed and processed by a public adjuster in order to ensure that you will receive the maximum settlement amount you are entitled to in order to restore your home. Keep in mind that a public adjuster will be more efficient and often more successful in negotiating your insurance claim, taking into account the following factors which affect insurance estimates:

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