If your home has water damage, understanding how a claim usually works can make the process less stressful. This is general information, not insurance advice — your actual coverage depends on your policy, so confirm the details with your insurer.
What’s often covered
Many homeowners policies cover water damage that is sudden and accidental, such as:
- A burst or frozen pipe
- A failed appliance, like a water heater, washing machine, or dishwasher
- A sudden plumbing failure
In these cases, the damage happened quickly and wasn’t something you could reasonably have prevented through maintenance.
What’s often not covered
Coverage commonly excludes damage that built up over time or that ties back to maintenance, such as:
- Gradual leaks and long-term seepage
- Damage from neglect or deferred maintenance
- Wear and tear
This is one reason acting quickly matters: a sudden leak that’s addressed promptly is a very different claim from one that sat unaddressed.
Flooding is usually a separate policy
Damage from flooding — rising water, storm surge, or overflow from outside the home — is typically not covered by a standard homeowners policy and usually requires separate flood insurance. If your water came from outside and rose into the home, ask your insurer specifically whether a flood policy applies.
Document the damage thoroughly
Good documentation supports your claim:
- Photograph and take video of the damage before cleanup, where it’s safe.
- Capture the source if it’s visible, such as the failed appliance or burst pipe.
- Keep damaged items, or samples, until the insurer reviews them.
- Save receipts for emergency repairs, temporary lodging, and supplies.
For the full first-hours checklist, see what to do after water damage.
Working with the adjuster
After you file, your insurer may send an adjuster to assess the damage. It helps to:
- Be present for the inspection if you can.
- Share your photos, video, and any provider assessment.
- Ask questions about your coverage, deductible, and what’s included.
- Keep a written record of conversations and decisions.
How restoration providers fit in
Many restoration providers are used to working with insurers and will often bill the insurer directly for covered work, sometimes starting emergency drying before the claim is fully settled. Confirm the billing arrangement with both the provider and your insurer, and keep your own copies of estimates and documentation. Our guide on choosing a provider covers what to ask.
Confirm coverage with your insurer
Every policy is different. Limits, deductibles, endorsements, and exclusions vary, and only your insurer can tell you what applies to your situation. Use this page as background, then confirm the specifics directly.
When you’re ready to be connected with a provider who can assess the damage, request restoration help.