Why Are Flood Claims Different From Water Claims?

A flood claim starts when water from outside your home enters through openings like doors, windows, or cracks in the foundation. This includes water from overflowing rivers, lakes, or streams, and heavy rain that pools on the ground before seeping in. It does not include water that comes from a burst pipe inside your walls or a leaking roof, unless the roof damage started from a flood event.

Flood damage often involves large volumes of water, so the cleanup and drying process can be more involved. The water may carry mud, debris, or contaminants from the ground, which adds layers of complexity to the restoration. You need to separate flood-related damage from any internal leaks that happened at the same time, because your policy may handle each source differently.

• Water from outside the building envelope
• Rising water from rivers, lakes, or heavy rain
• Water that seeps through the ground or foundation
• Storm surge or tidal water in coastal areas
• Water that enters through doors, windows, or vents

The main reason flood and water claims are different is how your insurance policy treats them. Standard homeowners policies often cover sudden and accidental water damage from internal sources, but they usually exclude flooding from natural causes. Flood insurance is a separate policy, often through a national program, and you need to have it before a flood happens.

If the water comes from outside, your regular policy may not pay for the cleanup or repairs. That means you could face high out-of-pocket costs for flood damage if you do not have flood coverage. Even with flood insurance, you may have a separate deductible, and the claims process can take longer because of the scale of damage.

After any water damage, your first step is to stop the water source if you can do so safely. For a burst pipe, turn off the main water valve. For a flood, wait for the water to recede if it is still rising, and do not wade into fast-moving water. Once it is safe, move valuable items to a dry area and begin drying out the space.

• Turn off the water source if it is safe
• Move valuables to a dry area
• Take photos and videos of the damage
• Start drying with fans and dehumidifiers
• Remove soaked carpets and furniture
• Contact your insurance company right away