Winter is the season of bursting pipes. Most claims professionals are probably familiar with the building damage that can occur in the event of water exposure, but some may not be aware of the options they have when it comes to resolving a loss with water-damaged electrical and mechanical equipment. This article gives tips and guidelines on how to safeguard against excessive costs arising from unnecessarily replacing water exposed equipment.

Water exposure reality

Nearly all buildings have some type of water pipes running through them, including heating, cooling, domestic water and sprinkler systems. When pipes burst, the flow of water can cause damage to building materials, as well as the contents of the building. But what about the electrical and mechanical equipment that is included in the claim? 

Many policyholders will immediately claim that equipment must be replaced if it has been exposed to water. Some contractors will even make this claim as well, and will refuse to consider the possibility of repair or restoration.

Without having prior technical experience, this leaves the claims professional believing that replacement of the water-damaged items is inevitable. This could be a costly mistake. Here are some tips from an expert on how to minimize unwarranted replacement of equipment due to water exposure.

Find an expert

This goes without saying, but find a second opinion when electrical and mechanical equipment is deemed unrepairable. While a policyholder may claim that these items were totaled, an expert is needed to help assess whether the equipment must be replaced or can in fact be repaired or restored to its pre-loss condition. If replacement is warranted, an expert can determine fair and reasonable costs for like-kind-and-quality replacements.