Getting home insurance to combat water damage or any other property damage coverage is expected in New York. Standard homeowner insurance does not cover specific incidents such as earthquakes, termites, normal wear and tear, or flooding. There are different home insurance exclusions that you need to know about, as well as the aspects that get you covered.

Here, we discuss the standard policy exclusions not covered by your homeowner’s insurance. But, irrespective of this fact, you can get add-ons to help you get coverage on specific areas as a backup.

What is insurance exclusion?

Homeowners insurance policies are meant to cover specific types of damage or loss. If there is any situation that does not abide by the policy guidelines, it is listed under the homeowner’s insurance exclusion. In this situation, even if the house is damaged or destroyed, you won’t get coverage for the repair.

Seven common policy exclusions

Here are the following periods that are not covered:

1. Flooding 

Homeowners insurance does not cover flooding, damages caused by natural rain, sewer lines, or pump sump damage. The basement flood insurance claim also does not cover water damage caused by seepage of groundwater, which can damage the house’s foundation.

Many homeowners are unaware of the specific exclusions in their policies until a costly incident occurs. Making informed decisions is crucial, especially while buying a home in a flood plain can present significant insurance and maintenance challenges. Understanding these risks in advance helps homeowners plan for appropriate coverage and mitigation strategies.

2. Earthquake 

If your house is damaged by ground movements such as earthquakes, land movements, shockwaves, landslides, mudslides, sinkholes, or any shifting of the earth, then it is not covered by the insurance policy.

3. Pest infestation 

If your house is damaged by animals such as termites, bees, and bats, then it is also not covered by homeowners’ insurance. However, some circumstances are set as exceptions and can easily be covered by getting an add-on.

4. Mold or wet rot

Dealing with mold is quite challenging and also a bit tricky, as the policy coverage range is determined based on the root cause of the mold. If the mold is caused by long-term leakage or lack of home maintenance, then it is added to the exclusion list of homeowners insurance. However, if it is sudden and unexpected, you can only get a repair reimbursement.

5. Power surges due to utility company

If there is power surge damage or outrage caused by the utility company, the policy won’t cover it. However, a power failure on your property can be due to a fire or a short circuit; it can be covered.

6. Intentional damage 

Suppose any loss is caused by an intentional motive by any resident family member. In that case, it won’t be covered under the policy, such as using spray pens or damaging any structure or part of the house that has caused injury to someone. However, due to accidental property damage or injury, you can get personal liability coverage.

7. War

If damage is caused by war, whether declared or undeclared, such as nuclear or civil war, it is not covered under the homeowner’s insurance policy.

Conclusion

There are many other exclusion policies that you need to review while getting homeowners insurance. You might also get an open peril policy that covers all causes of loss except for specific ones. So, go through the declaration page, inquire does renters insurance covers flood damage? If not, then add additional protection if required.