Has your home insurance provider denied your claim? It might be time to file a cast iron pipe lawsuit.
Your home should be a place where you can sit back, relax, and enjoy yourself. Unfortunately, for many homeowners with cast iron plumbing, home seems to be a constant source of stress. Cast iron is prone to corrosion, which can cause thousands of dollars of property damage if it forms a leak. Replacing cast iron pipes can cost tens of thousands.
Will your homeowners insurance cover repairs?
If your insurance provider decides to put profits over honoring your policy and denies or underpays your claim, you don’t have to sit there and take it. You have options. Here’s what you should know about cast iron plumbing, insurance, and filing a lawsuit if you are denied.
Does home insurance cover failing cast iron pipes?
Insurance companies often try to pass off damage caused by leaking cast iron pipes as the homeowner’s fault. While plumbing maintenance falls to the homeowner, you might be eligible for coverage in some cases, but your insurance provider will not make the process easy for you.
Here are a few things you can do to increase your chances of getting what you are owed for damage to your home.
The first step to a successful claim is knowing what your policy says. Insurance companies rely on their policyholders being unfamiliar with what they are paying for with their monthly premiums. Even if your policy does not cover the replacement of your pipes, you could have coverage for the demolition required to access the plumbing and repair your walls and floors after the work is completed.
If you are unsure about the details of your policy, consult with an attorney.
Your insurance provider may send a plumber to assess the damage. You should always get a second opinion from an independent plumber, so you have evidence from an unbiased source in case you need to file a cast iron pipe lawsuit.
Signs of Leaking Cast Iron Pipes
You also need to know the signs of leaking, and damaged pipes so you can promptly file a claim. If you leave the problem too long without repairing it, your insurance provider could deny your claim.
Be on the lookout for these signs:
- Foul-smelling drains
- Water discoloration
- Water stains on floors and walls
- Sewage backups
- Mold and mildew
- Wet or soggy lawn
As soon as you notice any of these signs, contact a plumber so you can get the problem fixed ASAP!
When to File a Cast Iron Pipe Lawsuit
Once you have filed a claim with your insurance, all you can do is wait for them to respond. They may make you an offer that only covers a portion of the damages, or they may deny your claim outright. If you think you deserve more than what the insurance company is offering you, talk to one of our attorneys. We will help you determine whether you have a case that is worth pursuing with a cast iron pipe lawsuit.