Claims questions
Does homeowners insurance cover water damage?
Homeowners insurance generally covers sudden and accidental water damage, such as a burst pipe or a failed water-heater line. It generally does not cover slow leaks, wear and tear, groundwater seepage or flood. Sewer and drain backup needs a separate endorsement.
Covered vs. not covered
Short answer: Sudden and accidental: usually covered. Gradual, flood or groundwater: usually not.
| Situation | Usually |
|---|---|
| Pipe bursts in a freeze | Covered (if the home was heated or properly winterized) |
| Washing-machine hose fails | Covered |
| Slow leak under a sink for months | Not covered |
| Groundwater seeps into a basement | Not covered |
| River or overland flooding | Not covered — needs flood insurance |
| Sewer backs up into the basement | Only with a backup endorsement |
What to do first
Short answer: Stop the water, protect what you can, photograph everything, and call before you throw anything away.
Then call us — we'll help you decide whether to file and walk you through it. Water damage is also the best argument for a coverage review.
Sources
Explanations on this page are general. Your policy documents control what is and isn't covered.
Keep exploring
- Home insuranceWhat Washington homeowners insurance covers — dwelling, belongings, liability, living costs — and what it doesn't. Get a home insurance quote from a Federal Way agent.
- Does homeowners insurance cover roof damage?When homeowners insurance pays for roof damage — wind, falling trees, hail — and when it doesn't, plus how roof age and ACV roof settlements affect your claim.
- Review my coverage
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