Just What Kind Of Water Damage Is Covered By Insurance?

6/29/2018 (Permalink)

If you’ve suffered a recent water loss in your home, your first instinct is to call your insurance. That’s why we have home owner’s insurance, after all! But, what sort of damage is covered by your insurance? Each policy is different after all and what’s covered by someone’s policy may not be covered by another. It’s a good idea to talk to your provider to see what is and what isn’t covered by your policy. Below, we cover some of the more common causes of water loss in a home and if it may or may not be covered.

Appliances? Depends.
Some appliances maybe covered, though it depends on what kind of loss it is. If it’s sudden and accidental, like a hose disconnecting from your washing machine and flooding your utility room – it may be covered. If it’s a continuous leak that hasn’t been addressed, that is considered to be a failure to maintain your appliances and won’t be covered. Be aware that your insurance may also not cover your appliance if it gets damaged either, it could have to come out of your own pocket.

Roof? Depends.
Just like appliances, roofs are on a case by case basis most of the time, and actually can be really confusing. For example, if it’s a gradual leak it may not be covered because it could fall under the ‘failure to maintain’ category. However, if your roof has been hit by a tree because of a severe thunderstorm, then your home should be covered. We recommend calling your insurance agent about your policy for better understanding when it comes to roofs.

Pipes? Depends.
When it comes to pipes, it definitely depends on the situation. If it’s a burst pipe that’s unexpected then your insurance should cover the damage. If it’s a gradual leak, like in a hot water closet or under a sink, then that can be considered failure to maintain and will not be covered.

Seepage? No.
Seepage isn’t covered by your insurance because it’s considered to be a maintenance issue that could have been prevented.

Backed up drain or sewer line? No.
Unless you’ve added on extra coverage, you’re unfortunately not covered by insurance.

If you’ve suffered a water loss, call us today at 817.560.3086 we are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.