Does Intact Insurance Cover Rodent Damage

mnccertified

You need 3 min read

·

Post on Nov 07, 2024

41 visitor like this post

Share

Does Intact Insurance Cover Rodent Damage? A Comprehensive Guide

If you've discovered unwanted guests in your home – rodents – you might be wondering if your Intact insurance policy will cover the damage they've caused. The answer, unfortunately, isn't a simple yes or no.

Intact insurance, like most home insurance providers, typically covers rodent damage only under certain circumstances. Understanding these circumstances is crucial for knowing whether you can rely on your policy to help you repair the damage.

What Does Intact Insurance Cover?

Intact Insurance generally covers damage caused by rodents if it falls under the category of "sudden and accidental loss." This means the damage needs to be a result of an unforeseen event, not a gradual or expected occurrence.

Here's a breakdown of situations where Intact might cover rodent damage:

• Sudden Entry: If rodents gain entry to your home due to a sudden event, like a broken window or a damaged roof, Intact might cover the damage.
• Neglect by Intact: If Intact fails to address a previous claim related to a broken window or roof that led to rodent entry, they may be liable for the rodent damage.
• Intact's "Other Perils" Coverage: This coverage, which varies depending on your specific policy, may include provisions for rodent damage, particularly if it's a direct result of an insured event like a fire or storm.

What Does Intact Insurance Not Cover?

Intact insurance generally won't cover rodent damage in the following situations:

• Gradual Damage: If the damage was caused by rodents slowly gnawing over time, it's unlikely to be covered. This is considered a "wear and tear" issue, not a sudden loss.
• Preventable Damage: If the damage was caused by rodents because of poor home maintenance, like leaving food out or neglecting to seal entry points, it may not be covered.
• Exclusions: Specific exclusions in your Intact policy might explicitly mention rodent damage. Always read your policy thoroughly to understand what's covered and what's not.

How to Protect Yourself from Rodent Damage

While Intact insurance might cover some rodent damage, it's always best to take preventative measures to avoid this issue altogether. Here are some tips:

• Regular Inspections: Check your home for potential entry points, especially around windows, doors, and plumbing areas.
• Seal Entry Points: Use caulk, steel wool, or other materials to seal any cracks or holes.
• Proper Storage: Store food in airtight containers and keep your garbage in sealed bins.
• Cleanliness: Clean up spills and crumbs promptly and keep your kitchen counters and floors clean.
• Professional Help: If you have a persistent rodent problem, consider contacting a professional pest control company.

Speak to Your Insurance Broker

The best way to understand your specific coverage for rodent damage is to talk to your Intact insurance broker. They can review your policy with you and provide a clear explanation of what's covered and what's not. Armed with this information, you can better understand your responsibilities and make informed decisions about protecting your home from these unwelcome pests.