Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Water Damage? What Do You Need to Know

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Water Damage? What Do You Need to Know

• 14,000 homeowners in the U.S. experience a water damage emergency daily.

• Water damage claims account for 29% of all homeowners insurance claims.

• The average cost of a water damage claim is around $11,098.

• 93% of water damage cases could have been prevented with proper maintenance.

Water damage can be a nightmare for homeowners, leading to costly repairs and extensive property damage. If you’re facing water damage, you may be wondering: Does my homeowners insurance cover this? The answer depends on the source of the water damage and the specifics of your policy. Understanding what is covered, how to file a claim, and how to manage the insurance process is crucial for protecting your home and finances.

What Types of Water Damage Are Covered by Homeowners Insurance?

Most standard homeowners insurance policies cover certain types of water damage, while others are explicitly excluded. Here’s a breakdown:

Covered Water Damage:

1. Sudden and Accidental Damage – If a pipe bursts or an appliance malfunctions, your policy will typically cover repairs to the affected areas.

2. Storm-Related Water Damage – If a storm causes water to enter through a damaged roof or broken window, insurance may cover repairs.

3. Plumbing Overflows and Leaks – Damage from a sudden plumbing failure may be covered, provided it wasn’t due to neglect.

Water Damage That Is NOT Covered:

1. Flood Damage – Homeowners insurance does not cover flooding from natural disasters. A separate flood insurance policy is needed for that.

2. Sewer Backup – Unless you have an additional sewer backup rider, damage from a backed-up sewer or drain is typically excluded.

3. Negligence or Lack of Maintenance – If water damage results from long-term neglect, your insurance company may deny your claim.

Determine if your water damage repair is covered via insurance here.

Steps to Take When Filing a Water Damage Insurance Claim

If you experience water damage, taking prompt action can increase the chances of a successful insurance claim. Follow these steps:

1. Stop the Source of Water – If possible, shut off the water source to prevent further damage.

2. Document the Damage – Take clear photos and videos of all affected areas before making repairs.

3. Contact Your Insurance Company – Notify your insurer as soon as possible to begin the claims process.

4. Mitigate Further Damage – Insurance policies require homeowners to take steps to prevent additional damage. This could include drying out affected areas or hiring a water damage restoration service.

5. Get a Professional Assessment – A licensed contractor or water damage specialist can provide a detailed report for your insurance claim.

6. Follow Up with Your Insurer – Keep detailed records of all communications and expenses related to the damage.

How to Maximize Your Insurance Coverage

To ensure you receive the maximum payout from your insurance claim, consider these tips:

• Review Your Policy Regularly – Understanding your policy’s coverage limits can prevent surprises when filing a claim.

• Invest in Preventative Maintenance – Keeping up with plumbing and roof inspections can prevent costly water damage.

• Consider Additional Coverage – Adding riders for flood damage, sewer backups, and sump pump failures can provide extra protection.

Get Help with Water Damage Restoration

If you’re dealing with water damage and need professional restoration services, LocalRestorePro is here to help. Our experienced team can assist with damage assessment, repairs, and insurance claim support. Don’t wait—water damage can worsen over time.

Fill out the form below for a FREE Consultation and let us help you restore your home today!