Homeowners insurance covers internal and external damages to the property and its assets, but their policy does not cover all damages.
Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Cracked Bathtub? Homeowners insurance does not cover cracked bathtubs because it is not accidental or sudden damage and occurs primarily due to poor maintenance and aging. Moreover, it is not covered because it does not affect the bathtub functionality and requires expensive replacements.
These insurance policies are designed to overcome financial loss due to the destruction of the building structure, personal liabilities, and loss of possessions.
You can claim the replacement cost in case of severe damage to the insured item, the actual cash value, and the extended replacement value.
Why does homeowners insurance not cover cracked bathtubs?
Homeowners insurance provides many benefits to owners as it manages payments for damage to dwellings caused by fires and tornados.
It is better to get insurance for at least 80% to 85% of your home that can cover damage after a natural disaster, as paying for the total loss after a tornado will be difficult.
Moreover, it protects detached surfaces and home content like furniture or appliances and reimburses the cost paid for their fixation and other unforeseen damages.
However, you can expect it to cover a cracked bathtub because it occurs due to your negligence and poor maintenance. In addition, natural wear and tear and irregular cleaning practices can lead to cracks.
You can see hairline cracks due to the use of harsh chemicals that can destroy its glossy finish and affect its durability.
Dropping heavy weight on the tub and knocking due to accidental falls can also cause damage to its structure. Similarly, a lack of support can also cause damage in the long term.
This insurance policy does not cover long-term damages due to aging or natural wear and tear. Instead, it pays for the sudden damage to personal property or assets.
This type of damage occurs due to poor cleaning and installation when you do not provide good support. In addition, it is an external issue that does not affect its functionality.
You can still enjoy a bath in the tub if it contains small cracks restricting you from claiming insurance for this damage.
Furthermore, the bathtub lasts for a long as you do not have to replace it for almost 15 to 20 years if you have taken care of its maintenance and cleaning.
Natural wear and tear and damage due to insects are the two things that are not covered by this insurance policy, so you cannot claim the replacement cost or actual cash.
However, it covers medical payments, loss of use, personal liabilities, and other internal and external structures.
When does homeowners insurance cover a cracked bathtub?
According to homeowners insurance policies, the presence of cracks in the bathtub is cosmetic or superficial damage that does not lead to loss of use.
It covers a cracked bathtub only when it has lost its functionality and causes severe damage to the flooring in the bathroom because they have to deal with the property damage.
In addition, a small crack can turn into a bigger hole if you do not pay attention to fixing it at the right time, and it turns into a serious issue.
It is better to fix it quickly because the company will not pay if they find that this damage needed only minor repairs but turned into a bigger problem due to your negligence.
A significant impact of heavy objects on the bathtub leads to the formation of larger cracks or even breaks, leading to leakage of water.
It becomes challenging to get a bath in the tub because water begins to leak and flow toward the floor. It can affect the flooring and pose a risk of damage to the building.
Accumulation of water on the floor can cause damage to house foundations as there is a risk of rotting on the wooden floor.
Moreover, it can damage the supporting material under the tub when water reaches the material from the hole. You can claim replacement costs if it cracks due to significant damage to the building.
How much does it cost to fix a cracked bathtub?
The cost required to fix a cracked bathtub depends on the extent of the damage. Minor repairs will cost you lesser than a full replacement, as it is an expensive setup.
You can use DIY kits to get rid of hairline cracks, as they can be easily removed with these kits at home. In addition, you can get them easily from a nearby store dealing in home improvement products.
Refinishing is also considered a suitable option that can help extend its lifespan if you use recommended cleaners and better refinishing methods.
However, they can become bigger over time and need a replacement, which is an expensive option as you have to pay for the new tub and a professional company to install it.
It can charge you almost $60 to $70 for only one hour, which can get doubled if it takes more time to fix the stress or hairline cracks.
In addition, a plumber’s service charges are added to the overall cost, which can charge around $80 to $250 according to their expertise.
However, it is better to hire a professional to avoid any issues as they have better experience installing the bathtub and know ways to prevent damage.
Furthermore, you cannot forget the cost of a bathtub, which usually seems to burden the pocket. A porcelain epoxy and a bath insert can cost you around $450 to $2200.
The average price of bathtubs is $2700, while the low-quality options are available within a range of $800 to $1000.
Some walk-in bathtubs are expensive and cost around $2200 to $7500 as they contain grab bars to get inside the tub quickly and seating in addition to a closing door.
Therefore, the replacement will be an expensive option that can be avoided with maintenance and care as you have to keep heavier objects and dirt away from it.
Does homeowner insurance cover water leakage in the bathtub?
It is better to get insurance for your property is on the safe side as tragedies, and natural disasters can occur anytime. On average, you have to pay almost $800 to $1200 for homeowner insurance in the US.
This insurance pays you long-term when you cannot afford costly repairs and replacements after noticeable structural damage to the building.
In addition, it is considered good to keep yourself updated about the changes in insurance policies.
Ask an insurer about water damage coverage without wasting time, as it increases the chances of rejection of the claim.
The reason for water leakage determines whether it will be covered under insurance or not.
Moreover, you are not eligible for another claim to homeowners insurance related to water damage if you have not fixed the problem’s original cause.
The companies do not pay for the damage if it occurs due to poor maintenance, flooding, or bursting of the water tank.
Related Articles:
