In most cases, homeowners insurance covers water damage that is sudden and accidental — a burst pipe, a failed water heater, an overflowing appliance, or rain that gets in after a storm damages your roof. What it generally does not cover is gradual damage from a leak you could have caught, damage from lack of maintenance, and flooding from outside (rising surface water), which requires a separate flood insurance policy. Sewer and drain backups are often excluded too, unless you've added a specific endorsement.
This is general guidance, not a coverage determination. Your policy language and your insurer's decision govern your specific claim — always confirm with your agent.
Usually covered
- Burst or frozen pipes that fail suddenly
- Water heater, washing machine, or dishwasher failures
- Sudden plumbing or appliance leaks
- Rain or storm water entering through storm-caused roof or window damage
- Water damage from putting out a fire
Usually not covered (without extra coverage)
- Flooding from rivers, heavy surface runoff, or storm surge (needs flood insurance)
- Sewer or drain backups (needs a backup endorsement)
- Slow, long-term leaks that caused gradual damage
- Damage blamed on deferred maintenance or neglect
- Groundwater seepage through the foundation
How to file a water damage claim
- Stop the source and stay safe — shut off the water and power to affected areas if you can.
- Document everything — photograph and video the damage before you move or remove anything.
- Call your insurer promptly — report the loss and ask about your coverage and deductible.
- Prevent further damage — start mitigation quickly; most policies expect you to limit additional damage, and the costs are usually covered.
- Keep records — save receipts, the restoration company's scope of work, and all communication.
How we make your claim easier
Documentation is what separates a smooth claim from a disputed one. As we work, we photograph the loss, log daily moisture readings, and itemize the scope so your adjuster has clear, professional evidence of the damage and the work performed. We work directly with insurance companies and can coordinate with your adjuster throughout the job — whether it started as a flooded basement, a storm, or a backup.
For a neutral, non-sales overview, the Insurance Information Institute's explanation of which disasters homeowners insurance covers confirms the same distinction: sudden, accidental water damage is generally covered, while flooding from outside requires a separate policy.
A note on flood insurance
Because standard homeowners policies exclude rising-water flooding, homeowners in flood-prone areas near the Huron River and other Washtenaw County waterways sometimes carry separate flood insurance. If you're unsure whether you have it, now — before a storm — is the time to ask your agent. Whatever your coverage, our local crew can help with the cleanup and the paperwork.