Water Damage Insurance Claim Guide
What homeowners insurance typically covers, how to document your claim, and the questions to ask your adjuster.
Quick Answer
Most homeowners insurance covers sudden, accidental water damage like burst pipes, but typically excludes gradual leaks and external flooding. Document everything with photos before cleanup, keep all receipts, and request moisture-log documentation from your restoration company to support your claim.
Filing Your Claim: Step by Step
- Contact your insurer to open a claim as soon as it's safe to do so — most policies require prompt notice.
- Take dated photos and video of all standing water and damaged items before cleanup begins.
- Keep receipts for any emergency mitigation (e.g., a plumber's after-hours callout) — these are typically reimbursable.
- Request that your restoration company provide moisture logs and an itemized scope of work for the adjuster.
- Avoid discarding damaged items until your adjuster has inspected them or approved photo documentation in place of physical inspection.
- Get a written estimate before agreeing to any repair or reconstruction work beyond emergency mitigation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does homeowners insurance cover water damage?+
Most policies cover sudden and accidental water damage, such as a burst pipe or appliance failure. They typically exclude gradual leaks, flood water from external sources, and sewer backups unless you carry a specific rider.
What is the difference between water damage and flood damage for insurance purposes?+
Water damage from an internal source (burst pipe, appliance) is generally covered by standard homeowners insurance. Flood damage from external rising water (rivers, storm surge) requires a separate flood insurance policy, typically through the NFIP.
Will my rates go up if I file a water damage claim?+
It's possible, particularly after multiple claims. This is a question best directed to your insurance agent, since it varies by carrier and claim history.
What documentation does a restoration company need to provide for my claim?+
At minimum: dated photos of the damage, daily moisture readings during drying, an itemized scope of work, and final verification that drying standards were met. We provide all of this as part of every job.
Water damage doesn't wait. Neither do we.
Crews dispatched within 30–45 minutes, 24/7, across the Louisville metro.