Water damage and homeowner insurance: What you need to know.
- Tim Friedrich
- Oct 23, 2024
- 3 min read
Updated: Feb 27
After Hurricane Helene made landfall and brought torrential rains to areas across the country, we saw how much damage water can do to homes. While Cincinnati didn’t face the devastation that Asheville and areas across Georgia and Florida endured, the Queen City experienced above-average rainfall – enough to wreak havoc on plumbing.
Water damage, whether from heavy rainfall, a burst pipe, or a natural flood, is important to understand, especially in relation to homeowner’s insurance. This guide will help you understand the various types of water damage, your homeowner’s insurance role, and the steps you should take to protect your home and finances.
Understanding Water Damage: Inside vs. Outside
Inside Water Damage
Indoor water damage typically results from plumbing issues, including:
Burst pipes - Often caused by freezing temperatures or old pipes, burst pipes can lead to significant damage in a short time.
Leaking appliances - Dishwashers, washing machines, and water heaters can leak, causing water to pool and seep into floors and walls.
Roof leaks - Heavy rains or damaged roofs can allow water to enter your home, leading to mold and structural damage.
When dealing with indoor water damage, it’s essential to act quickly. If possible, shut off the water source and contact a plumbing professional to address and fix the problem quickly and correctly. Never try to DIY water damage issues.
Outside Water Damage
Outdoor flooding is typically caused by:
Heavy rainfall - Prolonged or intense rain, like we experienced a couple of weeks ago, can overwhelm drainage systems, leading to flooding in your yard and home.
Storm surges - While rare, if your home is near the Ohio River or another large body of water (like the Little Miami River), you could experience flooding from a storm surge.
Melting snow - After a heavy snowfall, rapid melting snow can lead to flooding.
Water Damage & Homeowner Insurance
Most standard homeowner insurance policies cover certain types of water damage, but there are important things to remember.
Covered vs. Uncovered Water Damage - Sudden and accidental water damage (like a burst pipe) is typically covered. However, gradual leaks or flooding due to lack of maintenance is usually not covered. Also, most standard policies do not cover flood damage caused by natural flooding.
Flood Insurance - If you live in a flood-prone area like the riverfront, consider purchasing a separate flood insurance policy. This can protect your home and belongings against damage from outside flooding.
Policy Limits - Review your policy limits carefully. Some policies may have limits on coverage for certain types of water damage.
Remember: Preventing water damage is much easier (and less expensive) than dealing with it afterward. Get regular plumbing inspections to identify and address issues before they become major problems. Maintain your roof and ensure your gutters and sump pump are debris-free.
Understanding the types of water damage, knowing what your insurance covers, and taking preventive measures will help protect your home and finances. If you’re facing water damage issues, don’t hesitate to contact the Allied Reddi-Rooter team. We’re here to help keep your home dry and give you peace of mind. We always come highly recommended and have earned an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau for our expert quality of service.