Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Plumbing?

A common concern among homeowners is whether homeowners insurance covers plumbing issues.

Knowing what your policy may cover is essential since plumbing problems can range from minor leaks to significant water damage.

Basic Coverage and Specific Plumbing Issues

Homeowners’ insurance policies typically cover sudden and accidental damage caused by plumbing failures. If a pipe bursts unexpectedly and causes water damage to your home, your insurance may help cover the cost of repairs and damage to your property.

Your homeowners’ insurance may help cover the following:

• Burst pipes—If a pipe unexpectedly bursts and floods your home, the damage to your floors, walls, and belongings may be covered.

• Water damage—Insurance may help cover water damage caused by sudden plumbing issues, including repairs to damaged structures and belongings.

• Emergency repairs—Costs related to emergency plumbing repairs needed to prevent further damage may be covered.

Homeowners insurance doesn’t typically cover the following:

• Wear and tear—Routine maintenance issues, such as a leaky faucet or aging pipes that need replacement due to wear and tear, are generally not covered.

• Negligence—Damage resulting from neglect or failure to maintain your plumbing system, such as ignoring small leaks until they cause significant damage, is typically excluded.

• Flooding—Damage from natural flooding (e.g., due to heavy rains or rising rivers) usually requires separate flood insurance.

Understanding Homeowners Insurance Policy Exclusions and Limits

Every homeowner’s insurance policy has specific exclusions and limits that outline what is and isn’t covered. Policies often limit how much they will pay for water damage claims. Be aware of these limits to avoid surprises if a major plumbing issue arises.

Separate Homeowners Insurance Coverage Options

If your standard homeowners’ insurance policy doesn’t cover specific plumbing issues or you want additional protection, your agent may offer endorsements to help provide appropriate coverage.

For example, sewer backup coverage is an optional add-on to your homeowner’s insurance designed to help cover damage from sewer or sump pump backups.

Contact Us

Contact Freeman Insurance Services, Inc. in Albany, California, to understand your homeowners’ insurance coverage and how it may apply to plumbing issues and water damage.

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.