If you’ve experienced water damage in your home, you might be wondering, “Will my homeowners insurance cover the repairs from water damage?” Water can be one of the most destructive forces, leading to extensive and expensive repairs. Understanding your homeowners insurance policy is crucial to determine if your water damage will be covered.
The answer to whether your insurance will cover water damage depends on your policy’s specifics and the source of the water damage. In many standard situations, homeowners insurance will cover water damage. However, the nuances of your policy and the details of the damage event can affect coverage. Our team has extensive experience dealing with insurance companies and adjusters. Contacting us before your insurance company can often help you get your claim covered and give you a head start on containing and cleaning up the damage.
Typically, homeowners insurance policies will cover water damage from:
- Appliance leaks, such as those from a dishwasher or washing machine.
- Broken or leaking pipes.
- Roof leaks, in most cases.
- Water used to put out a fire.
- Storms like heavy rain, if the water enters your house from above.
It’s important to note that even if your homeowners insurance policy covers the damage from certain events, it might not cover repairs for the cause of the water leak. For instance, while a broken dishwasher hose might not be covered, the resulting water damage could be.
However, water damage repair will usually not be covered under a standard homeowners insurance plan if it results from:
- Flood damage, which is often defined as water that enters the home from the ground level, as opposed to rain overhead.
- Negligence of home repairs, such as clogged gutters causing water to back up into your home.
- Intentional acts of damage.
- Backed up sewer lines.
The specifics of homeowners insurance policies can vary by carrier, so these general rules may not apply to every situation. To understand your exact coverage, contact your insurance representative immediately when water damage occurs. We can also help guide you through your claim process, ensuring you receive the support you need during this challenging time.
Understanding the coverage of water damage in your homeowners insurance policy can save you from unexpected expenses and stress. Proper knowledge and quick action can make a significant difference in managing and repairing water damage in your home.
