Types of Water Damage Covered by Homeowners Insurance

Insurance generally covers water damage that is “sudden and accidental,” but not gradually occurring damage from poor maintenance. Here’s a quick look at what Forbes says is typically covered or excluded.

NOTE: Repairs need to be taken care of quickly.
See the Timeline of Mold After Water Disaster here.

Water Damage Typically Covered by Homeowners Insurance

The key phrase in many policies is “sudden and accidental.”

• Burst pipes (e.g., frozen pipes if the home was heated) and faulty plumbing.
• “Ice dams” when they cause sudden damage.
• Water from fire suppression after a fire event (e.g., sprinklers or fire hoses).
• Roof leaks from storms or falling trees.
• Storm-related water damage from heavy rain or hail.

Water Damage Not Typically Covered by Homeowners Insurance

• Flooding; requires separate coverage
• Neglect or poor maintenance, like latent plumbing issues or burst pipes because the heat was off during freezing temperatures.
• Earthquakes, mudslides; requires separate coverage.
• Repairing the source (e.g., replacing or fixing the appliance which caused the damage).
• Foundation seepage or pool leaks.
• Sump pump failures or sewer backups require separate coverage.

The full article is worth a read, as it contains more great information about water damage and insurance.