According to the National Weather Service, a massive rainstorm caused Palm Beach County property loss by dropping nearly two feet of rain in a 24-hour period, ending Friday, January 9, 2014, at 8 a.m. The rainfall was recorded from Thursday at 8 a.m. to Friday at 8 a.m. Areas hardest hit were Hypoluxo, which recorded 22.21 inches, while the southwest area in Palm Beach received 16.1 inches.
Estimated rainfall totals were highest in southern Palm Beach County, with areas along the C-15 canal south of Linton Boulevard showing a maximum total of 23.8 inches. To the north, along the C-16 canal that runs along the board of Boynton Beach and Delray Beach, the maximum rainfall recorded was 22.2 inches. Rainfall estimates in some areas were as heavy or even heavier than those reported after Tropical Storm Isaac in August 2011. The deluge that hit during that 24-hour period set rainwater downpour records and caused extensive property loss to water damage in Palm Beach County.
Water damage is the leading cause of property loss in South Florida, and weather-related property loss to water damage is the leading culprit. Nevertheless, non-weather-related water damage comes in a close second. Many, if not most, of these problems, are the responsibility of the homeowner, according to insurance companies charged with paying for such losses.
Most common causes of water damage reported to insurance professionals can be avoided. The following list provides preventive measures to help avoid the top four common causes of non-weather-related water damage:
Leaks from washing machine hoses: Washing machine hoses should be inspected annually and replaced immediately if there are any signs of cracking or bulging.
Leaky plumbing around water heaters: Plumbing should be inspected annually and repaired if there are any signs of leaks or corrosion. Water heaters should be installed in an area with floor drains to minimize damage if leaks should occur.
Leaks from refrigerator ice machines: Ice maker connections, usually located behind the refrigerator, should be inspected and hoses replaced if they appear cracked or corroded.
Clogged drain lines on air conditioning units: Air conditioning drain lines should be checked regularly in Florida, as a continuously running air conditioner produces a massive amount of water.
These problems are the responsibility of the homeowner. This is why it is important for everyone to read and fully understand the terms and conditions of their insurance policy. Here in Florida, homeowners need to be aware of exclusions that some insurance companies use and how they may affect a claim when and if water damage occurs.
Insurance policies often address Accidental Discharge or Overflow of Water or Steam when caused by one of the examples above. However, upon review of the policy, you may learn that this peril does not include loss on the residence premises unless you have used reasonable care to:
- Shut off the water supply; and
- Drain the system and appliances of water.”
It is important to read your policy conditions as well as exclusions.
Cleary Plumbing & Air wants to remind you that water damage cleanup is a hazardous and dangerous job, best left to the experts. Time is of the essence, but put your safety first! Water may cause damage to the foundations, short circuits in the electrical system, and carry biological hazards. Water damage cleanup from flooding is something best left to the experts. Call us; Let us help.