Homeowners Insurance Policy: Types of Leak Damage It Covers

Most homeowners experience water damage as a result of frozen pipes, floods, and faulty plumbing systems. Unexpected water damage is inconvenient, damaging, and stressful. Unfortunately, insurance companies only cover some water damage.

Remember that many people choose more affordable insurance policies, like an HO-1 that has limited coverage. So, what types of water damage do your standard insurance cover?

Types of Water Damage That Insurance Cover

Generally, all water damage that is unexpected and sudden is covered by your insurance, but not gradual leaking. Your standard homeowner’s insurance should cover the following:

1. Frozen and Burst Pipes

Your insurance coverage commonly covers the required repair work and cleaning of water damage resulting from a frozen pipe that burst. But it may be denied for some reason. For example, when you shut off your heating system because you’re going away for a holiday for a few days, causing the pipe to freeze when temperatures outside dropped.

If you intend to get away for a more extended period, you may ask a friend or relative to check on your house and ensure that your heat is running when needed. Also, when going away throughout the winter season, you may need to drain your plumbing system and turn off your water system.

2. Water Damage After a Fire

Putting out a fire demands hundreds of gallons of water, especially if the affected place is huge. This causes harm to your home, destroying its structures. It can also lead to mold, which is harmful to your whole family’s health. Fortunately, a lot of insurance covers mold.

3. Accidental Leaks

Property owner’s insurance can cover damage from leaking plumbing systems if it’s sudden and unintentional. For example, your washing machine supply hose all of a sudden breaks or a pipe bursts. Understand that you can not make claims if it’s due to poor maintenance. If you fail to fix a leaking toilet, it’s most likely that they will not pay for it.

4. Water Damage Cause by Storms

Homeowners’ insurance does not cover all water damage triggered by a storm, such as floods as well as earthquakes. If you want to make insurance claims for water damage caused by a flood, you must obtain different insurance, such as flood insurance.

Your homeowners insurance can cover water damage caused by wind, hail, lightning, or fallen trees. Make sure to read your policy to know what’s covered and what’s not.

5. Water Damage from a Roof Leak

Homeowner’s insurance policy typically covers roof leaks caused by storms. But if a leak takes place due to lack of maintenance, you may have to pay for the repairs from your pocket. As a general guideline, any accidental incidents that caused water damage to your home are covered by homeowners insurance coverage.

For example, a storm knocks down a tree and puts a hole in your roof; your insurance will cover the expenses. In case of wear and tear causing a leak, you have to take care of the repairs yourself. You may visit this link to know what kind of professional water damage services you need.