Understanding water damage insurance claimsAside from wind and hail damage, the most common home insurance claim stems from water damage. Determining whether you're covered for water damage usually depends on three key factors: Show
What types of water damage are covered vs. not covered by homeowners insurance?Covered
Not covered
Why are these items not covered?
What you should do if you experience water damage?Record the damage: Take videos and photos of the affected area and damaged belongings. Don't alter the scene or remove ruined items until an adjuster has completed their inspection. Prevent more damage: Take steps such as removing excess water and moving undamaged valuables to avoid further harm. Take a home inventory: Make a detailed list of all damaged items, including their make, model, age, and cash value, whenever possible. Other frequently asked questions about water damageDoes homeowners insurance cover mold?Home insurers typically won't cover mold removal or damage unless it was caused by a sudden or accidental incident. Does renters insurance cover water damage?In cases of water damage, renters insurance works similarly to homeowners insurance. Your belongings are usually covered if the damage was sudden, accidental, and came from inside the residence. However, unlike homeowners insurance, the responsibility for water damage in a rented residence falls to the landlord's insurance. What insurance pays money to fix a home damaged in a flood?Your standard homeowners insurance policy doesn't provide protection for flood damage. However, you can purchase a separate flood insurance policy through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).
Is water damage from rain covered by homeowners insurance?Homeowners insurance generally covers water damage from rain if it enters your home due to a covered peril, like a windstorm. But keep in mind a standard policy doesn't cover flooding.
Does homeowners insurance cover water damage from leaking roof?Yes, homeowners insurance covers roof leaks if they occur accidentally and suddenly by a covered peril like a storm with high winds or hail. Slow leaks, or leaks caused by a lack of maintenance, are not typically covered by home insurance.
Does homeowners insurance cover water damage from toilet overflow?If the drain pipes are blocked and the toilet's flushing system is broken, water can fill up in the pipes and will eventually lead to toilet overflow. Such cases are generally covered by homeowner's insurance.
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