Water damage ranks among the most common and expensive homeowners insurance claims, but not all water leaks are covered. Understanding when your policy will pay for water damage versus when you’ll face out-of-pocket expenses can save you thousands of dollars and prevent claim denial disappointment. At Colling Insurance Services, Inc., serving the Lakewood, CO area, we help homeowners understand their water damage coverage so they know what to expect when leaks occur.

Sudden and Accidental vs. Gradual Damage

Most homeowners policies cover water damage that happens suddenly and accidentally, like a burst pipe or washing machine hose failure. These unexpected incidents typically qualify for coverage because they’re not preventable through normal maintenance. However, gradual damage from slow leaks, poor maintenance, or aging plumbing systems usually gets excluded. If, for example, your bathroom floor rotted over months due to a small leak you ignored, insurance likely won’t cover the damage.

Source and Location Matter Significantly

The water’s source determines coverage eligibility. Internal sources like plumbing fixtures, appliances, and HVAC systems generally receive coverage when they fail suddenly. External sources like floods, groundwater seepage, and surface water typically require separate flood insurance. Roof leaks present gray areas where coverage depends on the cause. Storm damage that creates sudden roof leaks usually qualifies, but leaks from poor maintenance or gradual wear don’t.

Prevention and Documentation Are Key

Insurance companies investigate water claims thoroughly, looking for signs of negligence or gradual damage. Maintain your plumbing systems, document any repairs, and address small leaks immediately to avoid coverage disputes.

Understanding water damage coverage helps you make informed decisions about repairs and claims. Contact Colling Insurance Services, Inc., serving the Lakewood, CO area, to review your policy’s specific water damage provisions.