The short answer
Common Causes That Are Often Covered
Sudden and accidental events inside your home are often covered by a standard homeowner's policy. This includes a burst pipe, a washing machine supply line that fails, or an overflowing toilet. If an appliance like a water heater ruptures without warning, the resulting damage to your floors and walls may be eligible for a claim.
Damage from a storm that breaches your roof or walls is another common covered peril. This could be from wind-driven rain, hail, or a fallen tree limb. The key is that the water intrusion must be sudden and from an external source your policy lists. Gradual leaks from wear and tear usually do not qualify.
Frequent Reasons for Claim Denials
The most common reason for a denial is damage deemed to result from neglect or poor maintenance. If a slow pipe leak behind a wall goes unaddressed for months, the resulting rot and mold will likely not be covered. Insurance is designed for sudden accidents, not long-term deterioration you could have prevented.
Flooding from ground water or overflowing bodies of water is almost never covered under a standard policy. This includes water from a swollen river, heavy rain pooling at your foundation, or a sewer backup if you lack a specific endorsement. You need a separate flood insurance policy through the National Flood Insurance Program for these events.
- Damage from a long-term, unresolved leak.
- Flooding from external ground water or surface water.
- Sewer or drain backup without a specific rider.
- Mold growth that stems from excluded water damage.
- Problems due to faulty construction or design.
- Failure to make reasonable repairs after a known issue.
What to Do When Water Damage Happens
Your first step is to stop the water source if it is safe to do so. Turn off the main water valve to your home to prevent more water from flowing. Move furniture and belongings out of the standing water to limit further damage. Take photos and videos of the water and all affected areas for your records.
Contact your insurance company to report the incident and start the claims process. They will explain your next steps. To begin emergency drying, which is critical to prevent secondary damage like mold, you can hire local water damage pros yourself.
Understanding Your Policy's Specific Language
You must read your policy's declarations page and the section on perils and exclusions. Look for terms like 'sudden and accidental discharge' versus 'seepage or leakage over time.' The definitions of 'flood' and 'water damage' are very specific in insurance language and may differ from common understanding.
Pay close attention to any endorsements or riders you have purchased. Some policies offer optional coverage for sewer backup or sump pump failure. Knowing what you have before a disaster is crucial. If anything is unclear, call your insurance agent for a detailed explanation of your coverage limits and deductibles.
Working with Restoration and Insurance
Local water damage pros can provide a detailed assessment and drying report for your insurer. They document the extent of the damage, the moisture readings, and the steps taken for mitigation. This documentation is vital evidence for your claim and helps establish the necessary scope of repairs.
Keep all receipts and invoices for any work done or materials purchased. Your insurance adjuster will review the documentation from the restoration work and your own records before determining the payout. Remember, you are responsible for paying your deductible. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
Water damage does not wait
Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.
Call Now (405) 565-9833Frequently asked questions
Does homeowners insurance cover a leaking roof?
It might, if the leak is caused by a sudden, covered event like hail or a fallen tree. If the leak is due to worn-out shingles or lack of maintenance, it likely will not be covered. You need to identify the cause of the leak to understand your coverage.
What if a pipe bursts inside my wall?
A sudden pipe burst is typically a covered peril. The water damage to your drywall, flooring, and personal property should be covered. However, the cost to repair or replace the failed pipe itself may not be covered if it was due to corrosion or age.
How can I be sure what my policy covers?
The only way to know is to review your policy documents carefully. Look for the list of covered perils and the exclusions section. For complex questions, contact your insurance agent directly for clarification before you have an incident.