The short answer
What Is Usually Covered
Sudden and accidental water damage is often covered by a standard homeowners policy. This includes a pipe that bursts while you are home, an overflowing bathtub, or a leaking washing machine that damages the floor. The damage to your home's structure and your personal belongings may be included, up to your policy's limits.
The key word is "sudden." If the damage happens quickly and without warning, your insurance company is more likely to consider it a covered event. You should document the damage with photos and notes as soon as it is safe to do so. Keep receipts for any temporary repairs you make to prevent further harm.
What Is Not Covered
Damage from gradual leaks, such as a slow drip behind a wall that goes unnoticed for months, is usually not covered. Insurance companies expect you to maintain your home and fix small problems before they become large ones. Neglect, like failing to replace a worn-out hose on a refrigerator, is also typically excluded. Flooding from outside, such as a rising river or heavy rain that seeps into your crawl space, is generally not covered by a standard homeowners policy. You would need a separate flood policy for that. Similarly, damage from backed-up sewers or drains is often excluded unless you have added a specific endorsement to your policy.
Flooding from outside, such as a rising river or heavy rain that seeps into your home, is generally not covered by a standard homeowners policy. You would need a separate flood policy for that. Similarly, damage from backed-up sewers or drains is often excluded unless you have added a specific endorsement to your policy.
- Burst pipe from freezing
- Overflowing bathtub or sink
- Leaking water heater
- Malfunctioning dishwasher
- Sudden roof leak from a storm
- Accidental overflow from an appliance
How to File a Claim
If you experience water damage, act quickly to stop the source of the water. Turn off the main water valve if a pipe has burst, and move valuable items out of the affected area. Take photos and videos of the damage before you clean up anything, as this evidence helps your insurance company understand the situation.
Contact your insurance company as soon as you can to report the incident. They will ask for details about what happened and when. Be honest and thorough in your description. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. Keep a log of all communication, including dates and names of the people you speak with.
Working with the Pros
After a water damage event, you may need help from local water damage pros to dry out the area and assess what can be saved. They can inspect the extent of the moisture, check for hidden damage in walls and floors, and begin the cleanup process. This work is often a key step before repairs can start.
The pros can also help you document the damage for your insurance claim. They can provide a detailed assessment of what needs to be repaired or replaced. If you live in Mesa, keep your shutoff valve location written down and share it with your household members. This simple step can limit damage in an emergency.
- Inspect affected areas for moisture
- Dry out carpets, drywall, and wood
- Remove damaged materials safely
- Document conditions for your claim
- Recommend next steps for repairs
Preventing Future Damage
Regular maintenance is your sensible defense against water damage. Check your water heater, washing machine hoses, and refrigerator lines for signs of wear. Replace them before they fail. Clean your gutters and downspouts so rain flows away from your home instead of into it.
Know where your main water shutoff valve is and test it every few months. If a pipe bursts, shutting off the water quickly can save you from extensive damage. Consider installing a water leak detector near appliances and water heaters. These simple devices can alert you to a leak before it becomes a major problem.
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Call Now (480) 898-4279Frequently asked questions
What should I do right after water damage happens?
Stop the water source first, such as turning off the main valve. Then document the damage with photos and videos. Move valuable items to a dry area. Contact your insurance company to report the incident, and consider calling local water damage pros to begin drying and cleanup.
Does my policy cover mold from water damage?
Mold coverage is not standard in most policies. It may be covered if the mold is a direct result of a covered water damage event, but many insurers exclude it. Check your policy for specific mold language. If you have concerns, ask your insurance company directly.
Can I clean up the water myself?
You can remove standing water with towels or a wet vacuum, but drying out walls and subfloors often requires professional equipment. If the water is contaminated or the area is large, the pros have the tools to handle it safely. Always wear gloves and boots during cleanup.