How to Ensure Your Home Insurance Covers Water Damage

Water damage is one of the most common and costly issues homeowners face. From burst pipes to heavy rain, it can cause significant damage to your home and belongings. While many assume their insurance covers these events, the reality is more complex. Knowing what’s typically covered and what isn’t can help you make informed decisions about your coverage.

What’s Typically Covered

Standard home insurance policies typically cover sudden and accidental water damage, such as:

• A burst pipe

• An overflowing washing machine

• A broken water heater

In these cases, your policy may help pay for repairs to your home and personal belongings. However, damage from poor maintenance or gradual leaks may not be covered.

What’s Typically Excluded

Flooding from natural disasters (e.g., heavy rain or rising rivers) is not usually covered under standard policies. To protect against these types of events, you may need to purchase a separate flood insurance policy through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or a private insurer. Similarly, sewer backups and sump pump failures may require additional endorsements or riders.

How to Strengthen Your Coverage

To better protect your home from water-related damage, consider these steps:

• Review your policy. Identify any exclusions or conditions related to water damage, especially those involving gradual leaks or poor upkeep.

• Ask about endorsements. Evaluate add-ons like sewer backup, sump pump failure, or mold coverage that can enhance financial protection and reduce out-of-pocket expenses.

• Consider flood insurance. Explore a separate flood policy that can help cover the cost of repairs, rebuilding, and replacing personal belongings—especially in flood-prone areas.

• Maintain your home. Conduct regular inspections of plumbing, roofing, and drainage systems, as insurers may deny claims resulting from neglect.

Home Insurance in Houston, TX

Water damage can be unpredictable, but with the right insurance coverage and preventive steps, you can minimize both risk and cost. Contact Esquivel Insurance Agency today to review your coverage.

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.