Did you know that your homeowner and commercial insurance policy may not cover dry rot damage? Your home and/or business building can be affected by dry rot damage without you realizing, until it is too late. This issue only worsens when your insurance policy denies you the coverage you need.
(Video Source: Wise Property Care)
What is Dry Rot?
Dry rot is a fungal that takes over your wood structuring. The fungus consumes the cellulose of wood, decaying it's structure and making the once hard wood, soft and brittle.
How is it Treated?
Cleaning up a dry rot mess can be quite a hassle, but is treatable. To begin treating your dry rot issue, you will need to find the direct source where water is coming in. Check the following:
- Plumbing
- Pipes
- Doors
- Windows
- Roof
- Bricks
- Entrances
Once you find the source of condensation, begin dehumidifying the area with dehumidifiers you can purchase at your local hardware store. Dependent upon how large of an area the fungus has spread, invest in a few dehumidifiers to dry the area. Once the infected area is dry, replace the infected wood with new wood panels. Hiring a local contractor will be the most efficient way to finalize the treatment of your dry rot.
What Does My Insurance Cover?
Most insurance policies have strict rules regarding dry rot coverage. The constant or repeated seepage, leakage, water, or stream that occurs over a period of 14 days or more may not be covered. Also, if there is a presence of condensation, humidity, moisture or vapor, for 14 days or more, your policy may not be covered. To find out exactly what your homeowner or commercial insurance policy covers, contact Kipper Insurance (760)471-2200.
How Can You Avoid Dry Rot?
Dry rot happens in moist areas that generally have a lot of humidity. A storm can bring leaks into your building that you are unaware of. Making sure your roof is properly intact, with no holes, will help ensure no water gets into your buildings foundation. Also check windows and doors for large enough gaps that will allow water inside your home or business.
If you see or smell a musty odor, take action before it is too late. Call Kipper Insurance for more information and to update your policy now.