What Sort of Floods Does Insurance Typically Cover?
Floods are common and destructive disasters that cause significant damage to homes and properties. However, many homeowners assume that their standard home insurance policies cover flood-related losses, but the reality is quite different.
It is crucial to secure flood insurance to protect yourself from specific types of floods. In this blog post, we will delve into the kinds of floods that insurance typically covers and highlight the importance of having flood insurance.
Types of Floods Covered by Insurance for Homeowners
Typically, homeowners' insurance covers certain types of water damage, but natural floods are not one of them. Here are the types of water-related events that homeowners' insurance policies usually cover:
Sudden and Accidental Flood
Homeowners insurance covers sudden and accidental damage within your home. This may include:
- Burst Pipes
- Accidental Overflow
- Leaking Roofs
Sewer Backup and Water Damage
Homeowner's insurance policies may include optional endorsements to cover damage from sewer backup or water backing up through drains or toilets into your home. This coverage can be added to your policy for an extra premium and is not included in the standard policy.
Water & Flood Damage from Plumbing Leaks
Typically, insurance covers plumbing leaks resulting from sudden events like pipe bursting. However, gradual leaks or damage due to lack of maintenance are usually not covered.
Flood from Appliance Malfunctions or Leaks
If your home appliances, such as your water heater, malfunction and cause water damage, your homeowners' insurance may cover the damage, provided the malfunction was sudden and accidental.
Insurance for Natural Flood
It's important to note that while homeowners' insurance covers these types of water-related events, it typically does not cover damage caused by natural floods. For coverage against floods, homeowners need to purchase a separate flood insurance policy. Flood insurance can protect against flooding from external sources, like
- Heavy rainfall
- Flood from storm
- River overflow & more
It is always wise to check and ensure that you have adequate coverage for your home and belongings.
The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) provides flood insurance in the United States, but private insurance companies can also offer this coverage. To ensure that you have the appropriate coverage for your particular needs, carefully review your homeowners' insurance policy, discuss any concerns with your insurance agent, and consider adding endorsements or riders for extra protection if needed.
Your Home Is Damaged by Flood?
PDQ Fire & Water Damage Restoration is here to help you during your most challenging times. When a flood damages your home, you need a trusted partner who can provide swift, professional, and reliable flood damage restoration. We understand the stress and urgency of water damage and are committed to assisting you 24/7. Contact us anytime, day or night, and let us be your trusted partner in flood damage restoration. Call us at 973-447-3363 to learn more.
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