Weather vs Plumbing — Which Claims Does Insurance Cover?
Internal plumbing failures are covered by homeowners insurance. Weather flooding requires separate flood policies. The distinction costs homeowners thousands.
Homeowners insurance (HO-3) covers sudden, accidental internal water damage: burst pipes, appliance failures, and wind-driven rain through storm-damaged roofs. It does NOT cover ground-level flood water, storm surge, or river overflow.
Weather-related claims that ARE covered: ice dam leaks, wind-driven rain through a storm-damaged roof, hail breaking skylights. Weather claims that are NOT covered: river flooding, storm surge, groundwater seepage.
The gray area: sewer backup and sump pump failure often require separate endorsements even though they may follow a weather event.
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(888) 840-6512- Describe the damage & give your ZIP
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is a burst pipe from freezing covered?
YesSudden burst from freezing is covered as sudden and accidental. Some policies require maintaining heat at 55°F+ in vacant homes.
Is hurricane flooding covered?
Storm surge and ground flooding: no (need flood insurance). Wind-driven rain through roof damage: typically yes under homeowners.
Who do I call right now for water damage?
Call (888) 840-6512. The line is answered 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and connects you with an IICRC-certified water damage restoration company that serves your area. Describe what you can see — where the water is coming from, how long it has been there, and whether it smells — the more specific you are, the faster the right company is on the line.
If the source is a pipe or an appliance, shut the main water valve first. Have four things ready and the call goes quickly: the address, when the water started, what is wet now, and whether you have filed an insurance claim.
Still not sure which of these is your situation? (888) 840-6512 · toll-free · answered 24/7