In December, Los Angeles had an unprecedented almost 10 inches of rainfall, about four times more than normal. No one knows what the rest of the winter will be like. But if you’ve noticed signs of water damage on the ceiling, around windows or near exterior doors, take action now.
Even minimal rain can have devastating effects on buildings and can quickly cause damage. When rain comes after a long dry spell, the building materials could have developed cracks that allow even more water in.
Since concrete is impervious to water, parking slabs create a lot of runoff water. The design should direct all this water to a drainage system. However, leaf litter and trash can clog waterways and drains, directing excessive water to flow back toward the house and garage.
When gutters and downspouts are properly designed, they collect water runoff from the roof and carry it out away from the foundation. But to be effective, all elements must be maintained regularly. For example, if a downspout becomes bent by the mower or clogged with leaves, the metal tube can become backed up. This overflow will either cause water damage through the roof, or direct the deluge back toward the home foundation.
During rain storms, check that flow is running easily out of the down spout. Then make sure that the water is channeled away from the building. Add an extender or dig a trench if needed to send the water toward the storm drain.
At this moment you are wondering if rainwater enters your home and causes damage, is it covered by your homeowners insurance policy? In most cases, the contract lists the “covered perils” that will activate the coverage; rainwater is one of them.
When your house is damaged from water due hurricanes, hail, or “wind driven rain” breaking through the protective layers of construction, your homeowners insurance policy may cover any resulting damage. However, if flooding enters the home, this damage would not be covered. Flooding requires supplemental flood insurance to provide coverage.
As for mold, if rain enters your home through a covered peril and isn’t quickly addressed it could lead to more damage. Your insurance company expects the policyholder to take steps to protect the home from mold, vermin and vandals after the structure is damaged.
If you’re experiencing any type of water damage in Mission Viejo, call now for emergency repairs. The Flood Pro technicians are trained and certified by the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC). Rely on the team to clean up and restore water damage restoration to the highest quality.
