settlementcocaWater damage is any damage to a property caused by water. This can include damage to the walls, floors, ceilings, and other parts of the home. It may also include mold growth, which can be a serious health hazard.
If your community is prone to typhoons and flooding, you should have a plan on what to do if water damage occurs. This plan must include who will be responsible for repairing the damage and who will pay for the costs. It’s because you need a professional restoration company, such as PuroClean, for total water removal and drying of the property.
Where to Look for Water Damage?
Water damage occurs in any part of your house, but it is more common in certain areas, including:
- Basements: Basements are often prone to flooding because they are located below ground level. This means that they are more likely to be affected by rain and snowmelt.
- Kitchens: These are high-traffic areas, which means that there is a lot of activity and moisture. This can lead to water damage, especially if there is a dishwasher or sink leak.
- Bathrooms: Bathrooms have multiple water sources, such as the shower, tub, sink, and toilet. This can result in leaks and water damage.
- Windows: Water can enter the home through window leaks, especially if the windows are not properly sealed.
Signs of Water Damage
If you suspect that there is water damage in your home, look for the following signs:
- Water stains on the walls or ceilings
- Soggy or warped floors
- Peeling paint
- Mold growth (Click here for more info about mold removal services)
Who Pays for Water Damage?
In most cases, the tenant is responsible for paying for water damage that occurs inside the home. This includes damage to the walls, floors, ceilings, and other parts of the home. The landlord is responsible for damage outside the house, such as a broken pipe that causes water to leak into the yard.
Tenant’s Responsibility for Water Damage
1. The tenant is responsible for water damage inside the home, regardless of the cause. This includes damage caused by leaks, flooding, and even overflowing toilets.
2. The tenant is also responsible for repairing any damage due to their actions. For example, if the tenant leaves a faucet running and causes water damage, they should fix it and pay for any related expenses.
Landlord’s Responsibility for Water Damage
1. The landlord is responsible for water damage outside the home if the tenant did not cause it. This includes damage to sidewalks, driveways, and landscaping.
2. The landlord’s responsibility is also to fix any damage due to their actions. For example, if the landlord improperly maintains the property and causes water damage, they should fix it and pay for any related expenses.
Insurance and Water Damage
If you are a tenant and your home experiences water damage, your insurance policy may cover the costs. Call your insurance company to determine if you are covered and what the coverage includes.
Similarly, your insurance policy may also cover the costs if you are a landlord and your property experiences water damage. Contact your insurance company to know if you are covered and what the coverage includes.
Whether you are a renter or property owner, look for a reputable water damage restoration company to handle the repairs and restoration. Ensure they are insured, licensed, and have a good reputation. This ensures that they will do the repairs properly and that you don’t have to deal with any surprises in the future.
Conclusion
Water damage is one of the serious problems in any home if left unrepaired. In some cases, the tenant and landlord may share responsibility for water damage. This usually happens when both indoor and outdoor leaks cause damage. The tenant and landlord will need to negotiate who pays for what.
These are general guidelines, and each situation may be different. If you’re not sure who is responsible for water damage in your home, you can speak with a lawyer.
On top of these, keep the contact numbers of a property restoration company in your area. Ask for recommendations from the people your trust or go online and search for “restoration services near me.” Narrow down your list and look for reviews about them to help you make your final decision.
