What is gradual cause and is it covered?

Gradual cause is anything that happens gradually over a period of time, including damage and depreciation in value. Some examples of this include: 

• A leak not being fixed, causing water damage that becomes worse over time. 
• Rising damp – this is moisture from the ground that can soak up into the property and cause damage. 
• Condensation in a bathroom causing mould and mildew to build up.
• Rust or corrosion. 

Gradual cause isn’t covered by your policy, the reason for this is because insurance is designed to protect you for things that could happen occasionally – rather than providing a replacement or repair when items deteriorate over time.