Service Team of Winston Salem started a job recently that originally seemed straight forward but got a little dicey after learning that the customer’s insurance agent gave them some bad advice about drying the area. Their approach did not work and almost cost their clients over $10,000 on this claim.
The insured noticed water leaking from the refrigerator about a month ago and did the right thing by consulting their insurance agent. Unfortunately, the insurance agent told them not to file a claim and to just rent a dehumidifier for a couple days. The condition of the floors worsened over the next month until the insured was forced to call the insurance company back to file the claim.
Our crew started the job by removing a section of affected drywall and baseboard behind the refrigerator. At this point, it was discovered that there was some microbial growth that would need to be remediated as well as the damaged flooring. After further demolition, the team found a section of subfloor that was wet so long all the glue holding it together had separated. It was so soft that it initially appeared to be wood rot. The presence of wood rot is typically an indicator of long-term damage and is generally considered neglect by insurance companies. Therefore, the loss would not be covered and the customer would have to pay out of pocket to get their home restored.
Their hardwoods are damaged, a kitchen cabinet, drywall, subfloor and most of the area will require treatment for microbial growth as well at this point. Had mitigation been started right after the leak was discovered, most if not all the damage could have been prevented. Fortunately the carrier is a great company and stood by their customer and agreed to cover the loss given the circumstances.
It is extremely important to address water issues with your home or business as soon as they are discovered. By not addressing the issue immediately, the problem will only become worse and what may have been a covered loss, may not be covered due to neglect. If you notice water in your home in a place it doesn’t belong, be sure to act quickly and call Service Team of Professionals at 336-829-5345.
