Are You Really Protected Against Water Damage?

When heavy rainstorms roll through, every homeowner wants to feel confident that their home—and everything in it—is fully protected. While homeowners insurance typically covers certain types of water damage, there are important exceptions every homeowner should know about. Not all water-related incidents are treated the same by insurance, and understanding the limitations of your policy can help you avoid costly surprises.

Rainstorms and Your Homeowners Insurance

The good news is that most standard homeowners insurance policies do protect you from certain types of water damage caused by rainstorms. For example, if rain enters your home due to a covered peril (like wind damaging your roof or a tree falling and breaking a window), your policy will typically help pay for repairs.

However, damage that results from neglect—such as failing to repair a leaky roof—or water that enters slowly over time may not be covered. It’s crucial to keep your home in good repair and address water-related issues as soon as they arise to maximize your insurance protection.

The Difference Between Water Damage and Flooding

Water Damage:

This covers incidents like broken pipes, sudden appliance leaks, or water entering home from damage due to a storm or other covered peril. These situations are typically included in most standard homeowners insurance policies.

Flood Damage:

Damage caused by rising water from heavy rain, overflowing rivers, storm surges, or rapid snowmelt is considered "flooding." This is not covered by standard homeowners insurance and requires a separate flood insurance policy. If you live in a floodplain, typically your mortgage company requires flood insurance. If you live near a body of water or in a low-lying area, it is imperative to speak with your insurance agent to discuss if adding flood insurance is right for you.

Endorsements and Additional Protection:

Many homeowners are surprised to learn that there are other types of water damage not covered by basic policies. Fortunately, you can add endorsements (or riders) to fill in these gaps, such as:

Sewer and Drain Backup Coverage: Protects you if water backs up through sewers or drains, which isn’t covered by a typical policy.

Sump Pump Overflow: Offers protection if your sump pump fails and your basement floods.

Equipment Breakdown Coverage: Can help with the cost of repairing or replacing appliances that cause water leaks.

It’s wise to review your policy with your insurance agent and discuss what kind of water scenarios are and are not covered. This conversation can guide you toward any endorsements or separate policies that may safeguard your home, especially if you live in an area prone to certain risks.

Don’t wait for the next storm to find out if you have the right water damage protection for your home. Take a proactive approach by reviewing your current homeowners policy, considering additional endorsements, and exploring whether you need separate flood insurance. Reach out to your insurance provider to ensure you’re prepared—so when water threatens, you’ll stay high, dry, and worry-free. If you’re not with FCI Agency yet, one quick call or email with your personal FCI Agency advisor is all it takes to get your questions answered. Get started today!