Wet Floor Versus Wet Rot

This question is in regards to the ISO HO-3 policies, an edition after the 4/91. Often we have claims submitted where the insured reports that their floor is wet, but unsure of where the water is coming from. I understand that 'wet rot' is excluded. However, a “gradual leakage or seepage of water” is not excluded. Couldn't one argue that in order for there to be wet rot, then there had to have been a leak or seepage of water somewhere? I guess I'm looking for some circumstance in which “wet rot” would be excluded? 

Ohio Subscriber

A wet floor is not wet rot. Rot is defined by Merriam Webster Online as to undergo decomposition from the action of bacteria or fungi. Drywall will rot when exposed to water over a long period of time. The policy covers wet rot when hidden from view; when wet rot is visible but ignored by the insured, then it is excluded. For example, it's summer in a humid area, and the insured's basement has a tendency to get moldy. Sometimes the insured runs a dehumidifier to control the dampness, but sometimes he doesn't. After an extended period of not running the dehumidifier or addressing the mold, the mold develops into wet rot on the walls or paneling. This is where your wet rot gets excluded.

Or, it's summer and the kids toss their wet towels and pool toys against the wall; it won't take long for the wetness from the toys towels to start the rot process on the wall, especially if pool is used regularly.

 

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