Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Water Damage?

Q: Is a burst pipe covered by homeowners insurance?

Generally yes, a sudden, accidental burst pipe and the resulting water damage are typically covered.

Q: Is sewer or drain backup covered?

Not under a standard policy, it requires a specific water-backup endorsement.

Q: Is flooding covered by homeowners insurance?

No, rising-water flooding and storm surge are excluded and require separate flood insurance.

Quick answer: It depends on the source. Sudden, accidental internal water damage, a burst pipe or an overflowing appliance, is generally covered. Gradual leaks, lack of maintenance, sewer or drain backup, and flooding are not. Backup needs a water-backup endorsement, and flooding needs separate flood insurance.

Covered vs. Not Covered

The distinction that decides most water claims is whether the damage was sudden and accidental or gradual and preventable, and where the water came from. Generally covered: a burst pipe, a failed water heater, an overflowing dishwasher or tub, or storm water entering through sudden roof damage. Generally not covered: long-term seepage, damage from deferred maintenance, sewer or drain backup, and rising-water flooding.

The Two Gaps to Close

Water-backup endorsement for sewer, drain, and sump-pump overflow, see water backup coverage.
Flood insurance for rising water and storm surge, which homeowners excludes entirely, see flood coverage.
Address leaks promptly so damage stays in the “sudden and accidental” category
Install water-leak detection to prevent and document losses

Frequently Asked Questions

Is a burst pipe covered by homeowners insurance?

Generally yes. A sudden, accidental burst pipe and the resulting water damage are typically covered, though the cost to fix the pipe itself may not be.

Is sewer or drain backup covered?

Not under a standard policy. Backup requires a specific water-backup endorsement, which is well worth adding for homes with finished lower levels.

Is flooding covered?

No. Rising-water flooding and storm surge are excluded and require separate NFIP or private flood insurance.

What about a slow leak or resulting mold?

Gradual leaks and damage from lack of maintenance are generally excluded, and mold is typically covered only when it results from a covered water loss.

Close the Water-Damage Gaps in Your Policy

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Covered vs. Not Covered

The Two Gaps to Close

Frequently Asked Questions

Protect What You’ve Built

Close the Water-Damage Gaps in Your Policy

Locations We Protect

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Water Damage?

Covered vs. Not Covered

The Two Gaps to Close

Frequently Asked Questions

Protect What You’ve Built

Go Deeper

Water Backup Coverage

Flood Coverage

How to File a High-Value Personal Property Claim

Close the Water-Damage Gaps in Your Policy

Locations We Protect