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HearthDry

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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Frequently Asked Questions

Is a burst pipe from freezing covered?
Yes — sudden 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.