AboutJames R Carrier Expertise I'm an insurance adjuster, I'm able to answer questions regarding coverage, damage valuation, or anything to do with property & casualty in the State of Michigan. In other states I can answer general questions but insurance policies are written slightly different depending on insurance law in a particular state. Most questions however I would be able to answer or have the ability to get an answer.
Experience 20 years as a licsensed adjuster, handling 1000's of homeowners claims in Michigan, and Louisiana (Hurricane Katrina).
Education/Credentials Business degree with an emphasis on accounting from Arizona State University, graduating in the Fall of 1984.
Question we were gone a week on vacation and when we got back we noticed the floor in the kitchen felt squishy. We checked under the sink for a leak and found that the dishwasher had leaked. The floors underneath are wet and the bottom cabinets are also wet. The claims adjuster came and said that nothing would be covered because it was a slow leak and that he saw mold and that was preexisting damage. I figured we would have to pay for a new dishwasher but the floor and cabinets should be covered. Let me know what I can do.
Thank you
Answer Joanne,
Your adjuster is obviously misinterpreting your policy. A slow leak, a fast leak, any kind of leak is covered. What is not covered is damage done over a period a time where an occurrence or event causing damage cannot be determined. The point is you had an obvious event, the dishwasher failed a point of failure qualifies as a occurrence that caused damage to your home. An example of what your adjuster is referring too is a slow leak over a period of years that cannot be attributed to an event that caused the damage is not covered. In your case the dishwasher technically is not covered but the resulting damage is covered. If you would like any more information please feel free to contact me at jimsbook@hotmail.com, I would be happy to clarify anything discussed.
