Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Water Damage?

Every week we get the same call: 'My ceiling collapsed — is this covered?' The answer depends on one thing insurers care about more than anything else: was the damage sudden and accidental, or was it gradual?

What's usually covered

• Burst pipes and sudden plumbing failures
• Appliance leaks (washing machine hose, dishwasher, water heater rupture)
• Storm-driven rain that enters through wind-damaged roofing
• Accidental overflows from bathtubs and sinks

What's usually NOT covered

• Flooding from outside the home (requires separate NFIP flood insurance)
• Gradual leaks that developed over weeks or months
• Damage from lack of maintenance
• Mold, unless it results from a covered water event
• Sewer backups (usually requires a rider)

How to file a successful water damage claim

1. Stop the water source immediately and mitigate further damage.
2. Photograph and video everything before you move or throw anything away.
3. Call your insurer within 24–48 hours to open the claim.
4. Hire a licensed restoration company — most policies require it.
5. Keep every receipt for temporary repairs, hotel stays, and replacement items.

Working with adjusters

A good restoration company documents damage in the format adjusters expect: moisture readings, thermal imaging, room-by-room scope of work, and Xactimate-compatible estimates. This alone can be the difference between a fully approved claim and a partial denial.