Are water leaks covered by home and contents insurance?

Did you know Home Insurance policies often don’t cover loss or damage caused by things like rust and mould?

Mould can also cause health issues for some people.  So, it’s always good to try and prevent it.

This video will cover some causes of mould, how to identify it, tips for preventing it, and ways to kill it.

Mould can be caused by:

Areas with poor ventilation, that can include bathrooms,  laundries, and kitchens

leaky plumbing, including taps and plumbing behind walls

leaks in the roof

low levels of natural light

condensation, and flooding in the home.

Look for: Discolouration with a fuzzy appearance

Blue, black, grey, or greenish colour, although mould can be other colours too

A musty scent

Persistent cold-like symptoms in residents

Peeling wallpaper

If you can spot mould in its early stages, or areas where it’s likely to grow, you can nip it in the bud.

With mould, prevention is usually easier than cure.

Cleaning your air conditioners and fans helps prevent mould from growing in them, and helps ensure they’re effectively ventilating your home.

Check manufacturer instructions on how to clean your air con.

You might even get your AC professionally cleaned or serviced if you live in a humid or dusty area.

If you have GIO Classic Extras or Platinum cover, you’ll be covered for motor burnout if the motor is equal to or less than 10 years old.

So, if your ducted air conditioning unit motor stops working and our assessor confirms the motor has burnt out, we would cover the cost to either replace or repair the motor (whichever is less).

 

To find out more about getting cover for motor burnout, head to our website and get a quick quote online

 

Dry benches in areas that are often wet, such as laundries, kitchens, and bathrooms, with a dry towel or cloth.

Mould can grow in as little as 24 hours, so it’s best not to let any water sit for too long.

Ventilate culprit areas by switching on ceiling fans and opening windows.

In the kitchen, use an exhaust fan when cooking.

Turn on the ceiling fan when showering or taking a bath and leave it on for a while after you’re finished where possible.

 

If you live somewhere humid a dehumidifier — which takes moisture out of the air could be a worthwhile purchase.

These can also help relieve asthma symptoms!

Leaks in your home’s roof or plumbing issues are common causes of mould, so it’s best to act quickly.

If you’re a renter, raise the issue with your landlord or real estate agent.

If you own your home, you might want to give a roofing repair company or plumber a call.

 

Your Home and Contents Insurance will usually cover water leaks if they’re sudden or accidental.

Water leaks differ from flooding because they most often occur from within the home, as a result of appliances or plumbing.

Insurers may refer to a water leak as an ‘escape of liquid’.

GIO covers loss or damage caused by liquid bursting, leaking or overflowing from appliances like your fridge or washing machine, as well as baths, sinks and toilets.

 

Get a quick quote online.

If damage occurs because of a gradual process of liquid leaking, it won’t be covered.

 

So, don’t ignore signs of water damage or slow drips, even if they seem minor at the time.

 

Cleaning dirty gutters is important.

Gutters full of debris can cause leaks, which can lead to mould.

It may also be a condition of your home insurance to clean junk or debris out of your gutters, so failing to do so could impact any potential claim you make.

What if you’ve done everything in your power to prevent mould, but it’s still set in?

Don’t fear, there are a few ways you can help get mould under control.

Anti-mould sprays can help kill mould, as can regular spot wiping with soapy water.

Alternatively, a solution of vinegar and water, a cloth, and some muscle should give the mould a good scare

To find out more about a GIO Home insurance policy, head to our website.