Are Plumbing Leaks Covered
Homeowners insurance covers a lot of things, but it doesn’t cover every scenario. One of the big issues is water damage, and homeowners are often concerned about whether or not a plumbing leak is covered by their policy. In general, a basic homeowners policy (often called an HO-3) does cover damage caused by a leaking pipe, but there are certain situations that would leave you paying for a claim on your own.
If the plumbing leak is sudden and accidental, such as a burst washing machine hose, your homeowners policy will likely pay for any water damage it causes to your personal belongings. This includes items like carpet, rugs, furniture and even your walls. It will also help you recover any money you spent on repairing the item that was damaged by the water. Typically, your homeowners insurance will not pay to repair the pipe itself, but it may cover the cost of hiring a plumber or other professional to do so.
Insurance companies look at gradual leaks and other issues that stem from poor maintenance as a sign of neglect and don’t usually cover them. This is why it’s so important to maintain your property and keep up with routine plumbing repairs.
Are Plumbing Leaks Covered by Homeowners Insurance?
One example of this is a leaking water pipe that slowly develops into a major problem over weeks or months. This issue could be due to a corroded pipe or simply regular wear and tear on your pipes. If the leak is eventually discovered and a plumber is hired to fix the issue, it’s unlikely your homeowners insurance will cover the costs of replacing the pipe.
On the other hand, if your leaking pipe is the result of another event that is covered by your home insurance policy, such as a fire or a natural disaster, then it’s probably covered. However, if your leaking pipe is the cause of other damage in your house, such as mold or foundation problems, these are typically left up to you to pay for on your own.
If a leak is the result of your negligence, such as an ignored leaking pipe that finally bursts, your insurance company might deny the claim and argue you didn’t take steps to protect your home from damage. This is why it’s important to speak with a public adjuster as soon as you notice a leak in your home, so they can evaluate the situation and help you file a successful insurance claim.
While there are many ways to minimize your risk of a leaking pipe, it’s impossible to prevent all problems. However, you can reduce your chances of a costly problem by regularly inspecting appliances like your dishwasher, washing machine and refrigerator for signs of wear and tear. In addition, you can make sure to check the water seals on these items as well as regularly flush your drains with hot water and vinegar or baking soda to break up clogs. Finally, make sure to do your part to help limit water damage by turning off the main water valve if you need to.