Is Water Damage Covered by Insurance?
Most standard homeowners insurance policies cover water damage caused by sudden and accidental events, such as a broken pipe or an appliance malfunction. However, they generally do not cover water damage from neglect or poor maintenance. For example, if a roof leak is due to years of wear and tear, it might not be covered. Policies also typically exclude flooding from natural disasters unless you have separate flood insurance.
Understanding the fine print of your policy is essential. Coverage details vary, and terms like "sudden and accidental" can be open to interpretation. If you're unsure, a licensed public adjuster like Excel Adjusters can review your policy and explain what is covered, making sure no potential benefits are overlooked.
The below are typically considered water damage and covered under a standard homeowners insurance policy:
- Burst pipes due to freezing or sudden failure
- Overflowing sinks, bathtubs, or toilets
- Appliance leaks, such as washing machines or dishwashers
- Roof leaks caused by a storm or fallen tree
- Water damage from extinguishing a fire
Keep in mind, gradual issues like long-term leaks or neglect may not be covered.
- Ice dams causing leaks in ceilings or walls
- Rain entering through a broken window or roof
- Plumbing system failures or leaks within walls
- Water heater bursts, leading to significant flooding
- Sudden and accidental damage from HVAC system leaks

How Much Does Insurance Pay for Water Damage?
The payout for water damage depends on the scope of the damage, the terms of your policy, and the cost of necessary repairs. Policies often have coverage limits for specific items or areas of the home. For instance, they might cover the full cost of replacing damaged drywall but only part of the cost for certain high-end fixtures.
Additional Living Expenses (ALE) are another important consideration. If water damage makes your home uninhabitable, your policy might cover the costs of temporary housing, meals, and extra transportation. However, ALE coverage is limited to the additional costs incurred due to the damage, not your usual living expenses. For example, if you normally spend $400 on groceries but now spend $600 because you’re dining out, your insurer will typically reimburse you only for the $200 difference.
What Repairs Are Covered in a Water Damage Claim?
Repairs covered by insurance typically include fixing or replacing damaged structural elements like walls, ceilings, flooring, and cabinetry. Your policy might also cover the costs of preventing further damage, such as water extraction and mold remediation. However, the source of the damage—such as a broken pipe or faulty appliance—may not always be covered unless explicitly stated in your policy.
Public adjusters can help ensure that all necessary repairs are included in your claim, providing detailed documentation and estimates to present to your insurer.
What Is a Water Damage Insurance Claim List?
A water damage insurance claim list is a comprehensive inventory of damages and associated costs that you submit to your insurer. This list includes every repair, replacement, and expense related to the damage, from structural fixes to personal belongings.
For homeowners, creating an accurate claim list can be overwhelming, especially during an already stressful time. Public adjusters itemize damages and estimate costs to create a thorough and detailed claim list aligned with industry standards. This attention to detail helps increase your chances of securing a fair and reasonable settlement.

What Is Contents Restoration?
Contents restoration refers to salvaging and repairing personal belongings damaged by water. Items like furniture, electronics, clothing, and documents can often be restored instead of replaced, depending on the extent of the damage.
Insurance policies usually include coverage for personal property, but limits and exclusions apply. Working with professionals who specialize in contents restoration can maximize your claim while helping preserve sentimental and valuable items.
What Else Will Insurance Cover?
Beyond repairs and restoration, water damage insurance may also cover:
- Temporary housing costs: Hotel stays, rental homes, or other accommodations while your home is repaired
- Pet boarding fees: If your pets cannot stay with you during the repair process
- Storage costs: Temporary storage for undamaged belongings while repairs are underway
- Laundry services: If your appliances are unusable due to water damage
- Moving expenses: Costs associated with relocating to a temporary residence
Each policy is different, so understanding the specifics of your coverage is key to avoiding surprises.
Trust Excel Adjusters to Simplify the Process
Filing a water damage insurance claim can be complex, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. At Excel Adjusters, we advocate on your behalf, handling every aspect of your claim and helping you receive a fair and reasonable settlement.