House & Home
Fri, February 6, 2026
Coverage Gaps Extend Beyond Electrical Systems
//house-home.news-articles.net/content/2026/02/0 .. erage-gaps-extend-beyond-electrical-systems.html
Published in House and Home on Friday, February 6th 2026 at 11:52 GMT by WABI-TVLocales: Maine, UNITED STATES
Beyond Electrical Systems: A Wider Look at Coverage Gaps
The issue extends beyond just electrical wiring. Outdated plumbing, particularly vulnerable to freezing and bursting during sub-zero temperatures, also presents a significant risk. Standard policies may cover the result of a burst pipe - the water damage - but may not cover the cost of replacing the aging pipes themselves, which could be the root cause of the problem and a potential future hazard.
Furthermore, the increasing use of alternative heating methods, such as wood stoves and pellet stoves, requires proper installation and maintenance. If a fire originates from a poorly maintained or improperly installed heating appliance, insurance coverage could be denied.
What Can Homeowners Do?
State officials are emphasizing a multi-pronged approach to mitigating these risks:
- Thorough Policy Review: Homeowners should meticulously review their insurance policies, paying close attention to exclusions and limitations. Don't hesitate to contact your insurance agent to clarify any ambiguous language.
- Professional Inspections: A licensed electrician should inspect the home's electrical system, particularly in older homes, to identify potential hazards and recommend necessary upgrades. Plumbing inspections are equally important.
- Safe Space Heater Usage: Space heaters should be used with extreme caution, kept away from flammable materials, and never left unattended. Consider investing in newer models with automatic shut-off features.
- Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Ensure smoke detectors are installed on every level of the home and are tested monthly. Carbon monoxide detectors are also crucial, especially when using fuel-burning appliances.
- Consider "Replacement Cost" vs. "Actual Cash Value" Coverage: Replacement cost coverage will pay to replace damaged items with new ones, while actual cash value coverage deducts depreciation. Replacement cost coverage is generally more expensive but provides better protection.
- Document Home Improvements: Keep records of all home improvements, including electrical and plumbing upgrades. This documentation can be valuable when filing a claim.
"Prevention is paramount," York stressed. "A small investment in preventative maintenance now can save lives, protect homes, and prevent catastrophic financial losses down the road." The Maine Insurance Association is working with state legislators to explore potential programs to help homeowners afford necessary upgrades to their electrical and heating systems. This is a long-term issue requiring collaborative solutions to ensure the safety and financial security of Maine residents.
Read the Full WABI-TV Article at:
[ https://www.wabi.tv/2026/01/06/maine-house-fires-highlight-insurance-gaps-winter-brings-increased-risk/ ]
