Almost all homeowners experience water damage caused by frozen pipes, floods, defective plumbing systems, etc. Unfortunately, unexpected water damage is inconvenient, damaging, and stressful, especially that insurance companies only fully cover some types of water damage and not all. Note that many people choose cheaper insurance policies, like an HO-1 that has restricted coverage.
Types of Water Damage That Insurance Cover
Usually, all water damage that is unexpected and sudden is covered by your insurance, however not gradual leaking. Your standard homeowners insurance must cover the following:
1. Frozen and Burst Pipes
Your homeowners insurance generally covers the needed repairs and cleaning of water damages resulting from a frozen pipe that burst. However, it may be rejected in some situations. For instance, when you turn off your heater because you’re going away for a vacation for a few days, causing the pipe to freeze when temperature levels outside dropped.
If you intend to get away for a more extended period, you may ask a friend or relative to check on your home to make sure your heat is running when needed. When leaving throughout the winter season, consider draining your plumbing system and turning off your water system.
2. Water Damage After a Fire
Putting out a fire needs hundreds of gallons of water, especially if the affected area is huge. This can cause harm to your home, damaging its structures. It can also cause mold, which is dangerous to your family’s health. Thankfully, most insurance covers mold removal.
In case of severe cases of mold, it’s always best to hire reputable restoration companies. They have the proper training and equipment to eliminate the problem right away.
3. Accidental Leaks
Homeowner’s insurance can cover damage from leaking plumbing systems if it’s unexpected and unintentional. For example, your washing machine supply hose all of a sudden breaks or a pipe bursts. You can not make claims if it’s due to inadequate maintenance. If you fail to fix a leaking toilet, it’s most likely that they will deny it.
4. Water Damage from Storms
Homeowners insurance doesn’t cover all water damage caused by a storm, such as floods and earthquakes. If you intend to make claims for water damage caused by a flood, you need to get separate insurance coverage, such as flooding insurance.
Your homeowner’s insurance can cover water damage caused by wind, hailstorms, lightning, or fallen trees. Ensure to read your policy to know what’s covered and what’s not.
5. Water Damage From a Roof Leak
Homeowners’ insurance typically covers roof leaks caused by storms. But if a leak happens due to a lack of maintenance, you may have to pay for the repairs from your pocket. As a general rule, any accidental incidents that caused water damage to your home are covered by the homeowners insurance policy.
For example, when a storm knocks down a tree and puts a hole in your roof, your insurance policy is most likely to cover the repairs you need. But in case of wear and tear causing a leak, you have to look after the damage yourself. Click here to know more about water damage services you may need.
Hazards Generally not Included in Your Home Insurance
- Floods
- Smog, rust, and corrosion
- Damage caused by pets
- Negligence and general wear and tear
- Damage resulting from an infestation of animals or insects
- War or government action
- Settling, cracking, or warping of your home’s foundation
- Earthquakes, landslides, and mudslides
