Leaking showers can cause tremendous damage to your home, leading to costly repairs and replacements. Not only does a leaking shower create an uncomfortable and damp atmosphere, but it can also cause mould and mildew growth, which can be both unsightly and a health hazard. Additionally, the water damage caused by a leaky shower can not only affect the bathroom but also spread to other areas of your home – this could mean ruining furniture and flooring in other rooms as well as damaging walls or ceilings. It is important to identify and fix any leaks in your shower as soon as possible before further damage is done.
If left unrepaired, a leaky shower can result in a financial disaster. Fortunately, in some situations a home insurance policy can help with the expenses involved, but not always. Read on to find out more.
Does Home Insurance Cover Shower Leaks?
There is no black and white answer to this question. Every policy and provider is different and offers different terms and conditions. Typically, if a shower leak is caused by a sudden burst pipe or other event that occurred quickly and unexpectedly, you should be covered.
In our experience, most damages caused by a gradual leak due to cracked grout or cracked tiles is also covered. However, the required repair to fix the grout and or tiles is usually not covered by most home insurance policies.
If your shower leak is the result of wear and tear, or it was caused by lack of maintenance you will probably not be covered. If you suspect you have a leak, don’t wait! Get it checked today.
It is essential that you read your Product Disclosure Statement included with your policy very carefully, and also speak with your home insurance company directly to find out what’s actually covered.
What is Water Damage?
There’s typically two types of water damage – ‘sudden and accidental’ damage and ‘gradual’ water damage.
Sudden and accidental damage includes such things as burst pipes and damage from storms/floods.
Gradual water damage occurs over time. It may start small, such as rotting or mould, but can worsen over time to include extensive damage to the structure of your home. Gradual damage may be caused by:
- A slow leaking pipe
- Seepage that is coming through the foundations of your home
- Lack of repairs completed on your home
- Cracks in shower tiles or damaged grout
What is a ‘Water Damage Clause’?
Insurance policies usually contain a water damage clause which outlines rules and regulations regarding a claim for water damage to your home. It typically states the specific water damage you are covered for under your insurance policy, as well as what is excluded, such as negligence or failure to maintain home repairs.
Signs You Have a Shower Leak
Regardless of the type of water damage that you may be covered for, it’s best that you don’t get yourself stuck in a situation where you need to make a claim. Always be on the lookout for signs your shower is leaking, and if you have any doubt get it checked by a professional. Some common signs of a leaky shower include:
- Water stains on the floor or walls around your shower
- A damp or musty smell in your bathroom
- Cracked, damaged, or loose tiles
- Peeling paint or wallpaper
- Cracked or damaged grout
Preventing Water Damage
The best way to avoid a leaky shower, and any resulting water damage is prevention. The most effective form of prevention is regular maintenance completed by a professional. Replacing broken tiles, organising tile grout repairs, and re-sealing your shower are some simple and affordable prevention measures that keep your shower leak-free!
For leaking showers, Perth homes and businesses can rely on My Shower for fast, effective, and long-lasting shower leak repair solutions. Get in touch with our friendly team online or by calling 1300 055 088 today.