After a summer of above average rainfall in Massachusetts, with after effects from Elsa, Fred, Henri, and now Ida it seems like everything around us is wet and swampy. After each major storm, we’ve gotten a lot of questions about water and what is covered under a homeowners policy.
Water damage is sometimes covered by a standard homeowners insurance policy, but not always. It depends on what the cause is: sudden or accidental, internal water damage is covered, while damage due to lack of maintenance or neglect, as well as flood-related damages, are not.
So when does a homeowners policy cover water damage?
A standard home insurance policy will cover water damage if it is sudden/accidental and internal, with the requirement that the water has never touched the outside ground. This means the water damage must be the result of one of the 16 perils covered by homeowners insurance, such as sudden and accidental tearing, cracking, burning or bulging of a steam, heating, AC or automatic fire protection system.
When water damage is covered by homeowners insurance:
Rain or snow storm
Plumbing: burst pipes, frozen plumbing, faulty plumbing, accidental overflow
Water damage from extinguishing a fire
Leaking roof (coverage would apply only to the home interior, not the roof itself)
Accidental overflow of an appliance or fixture (toilet, washing machine, bathtub)
When water damage is NOT covered by homeowners insurance:
Water damage isn’t always covered by your home insurance if it’s not the result of an accident or sudden, unexpected occurrence. Neglect or lack of maintenance resulting in water damage means you’re personally on the hook for the cost of repairs.
Certain situations where homeowners insurance does not cover water damage are:
Ground seepage
Water or sewer pipe backups (unless additional water back up coverage has been purchased and added by endorsement)
Flooding
Poorly-maintained pipes leading to leaks
Standard policies don’t cover water damage resulting from a flood, either. For that, you’ll need to purchase flood insurance, especially if you reside in a high-risk area prone to flooding. Many mortgage holders will require you to purchase flood insurance if you are in a flood area.
What should you do if you think you may need to file a claim due to water damage?
Call our office as soon as possible. We can assist you with filing a claim.
Take pictures of the affected area, where the water came from, and any damage that you are aware of.
Do what is necessary to prevent further damage to the home, keep all receipts!
If you have questions about filing a claim, water damage, or other questions about your policy, please reach out to our office and our team will be happy to help.
P.S. While we’re talking about flooding… remember, never drive into flooded roadways! It can be extremely dangerous and the water may be deeper than it appears. Stay safe!