We’ve had water damage in our home due to a plumbing leak? Is that covered by our homeowner’s insurance?

You should check your homeowner’s insurance policy, however, this type of water damage is typically covered. In fact, water damage due to plumbing leaks is one of the most common homeowner’s insurance claims.

Most household water damage is caused by plumbing leaks or appliance failure such as toilet flooding, a leaking refrigerator, burst pipes and similar issues. Because these incidents are usually unpredictable, they should be covered by your homeowner’s insurance policy.

What should we do if we need to file a claim for the water damage?

First, you should do what you can to prevent additional damage. For instance, if you have a leaking pipe, you may need to shut off the main water supply to your home. Take pictures or video to document the damage. You should also assess the loss of personal items that might have been affected. Then, call your insurance company. They will check your coverage and deductible, as well as verify the damage to your home and any personal belongings.

If you need professional help with cleanup, contact your local Roto-Rooter plumber. Our water restoration experts are well-trained and knowledgeable and provide fast, quality service.

Is there anything we can do to prevent these common damages in the future?

If you are aware of the common risks, you can do regular maintenance to prevent future issues. For example, insulate pipes to prevent them from freezing or bursting in the winter. Regularly inspect hoses on appliances such as your dishwasher and washing machine. Keep an eye on leaky toilets, dripping faucets and outdoor hose bibs to head off any potential plumbing issues that could turn into leaks. If you have hard water, you can consider installing a water softener to protect pipes and your water heater from premature failure.