Water Damage and Insurance

7/19/2021 (Permalink)

Different types of water damage are covered by several types of policies. 

Insurance Information Institute shares insight on water damage and insurance coverage to help us ask the right questions and make sure we have the coverage we need. 

Homeowners and renters' insurance provides coverage for burst pipes, wind driven rain and damage resulting from ice dams on your roof. Water that comes from the top down—such as rainfall and burst sprinklers—is covered by a standard homeowner's policy. 

Some policies cover sewer and drain backups, but many do not; however, you can purchase a sewer backup rider to your homeowners or renters' coverage. 

Typically, water that comes from the bottom up—such as an overflowing river—is covered by a separate flood insurance policy, which can be purchased from the federal government’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), and from some private insurers. If you live in a flood prone area, learn more about appropriate coverage. 

Be sure to check with your local insurance carriers to ensure you have the proper coverage for your home or business.