When plumbing problems strike, they can cause a lot more than just inconvenience—they can lead to major water damage, expensive repairs, and a serious headache. One question we hear all the time from homeowners is: Will my insurance cover this? The answer isn’t always simple, but understanding how your homeowners insurance works with plumbing can help you be better prepared.
Common Questions From Homeowners
Let’s break it down by answering three of the most common questions we get about plumbing and homeowners insurance.
Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Plumbing Issues?
Yes—sometimes. Most standard homeowners insurance policies will cover plumbing-related damage if it was sudden and accidental. For example, if a pipe bursts unexpectedly and floods your kitchen, your insurance may cover the water damage to walls, floors, and furniture.
However, there’s a catch: the policy typically covers the damage caused by the plumbing issue, not the cost of fixing the plumbing itself. So if a pipe bursts, insurance may pay for water damage cleanup and repairs, but not for replacing the pipe.
Which Plumbing Issues Aren’t Covered by Homeowners Insurance?
Insurance companies expect homeowners to perform regular maintenance. So, issues that arise from neglect, wear and tear, or lack of upkeep generally aren’t covered. Here are a few examples of what’s typically not covered:
- Slow leaks that develop over time
- Clogged pipes due to grease buildup or foreign objects
- Corroded or outdated plumbing systems
- Root intrusion in sewer lines
- Sump pump failure (unless you have a specific rider)
If the insurance company determines the problem was preventable or due to poor maintenance, they can deny the claim. This is why routine plumbing checkups are so important—they help you avoid issues that insurance won’t cover.
How to Get Insurance to Pay for Plumbing?
If you’re facing a plumbing disaster and think it might be covered, here’s how to increase your chances of getting insurance to pay for it:
- Act fast – Stop the water flow immediately (shut off the main valve) and call a plumber to assess the damage.
- Document everything – Take photos or videos of the damage, the source of the leak, and any affected areas.
- Contact your insurance company – File a claim as soon as possible. Provide them with the plumber’s report and your documentation.
- Keep all receipts – For emergency repairs, cleanup, and any temporary lodging if you need to leave the home.
It also helps to work with a licensed plumber who’s familiar with insurance claims. They can provide detailed reports that clearly explain the cause of the problem, which is crucial when the insurance company is deciding whether to approve the claim.
Final Thoughts
Understanding your homeowners insurance policy before a plumbing issue happens is key. While some plumbing emergencies are covered, regular maintenance is still your best defense. And if you’re ever unsure, give us a call—our team can help assess your plumbing issue and guide you on what to expect when dealing with insurance.
Stay dry and stay informed!