Homeowners are usually scared of water damage in the basement because it could be more severe than expected. From structural damage to the loss of aesthetics and other damages to other properties in the building, water damage restoration can be very costly and at worst, irreversible. Given this, it will help to know if your home insurance covers water damage in your basement before it happens in your home.
Before going further, understand this that not all types of water damage are covered by your home insurance. So, if you could, complete your home’s basement waterproofing. The cause of the water damage determines if it will be covered by a standard home insurance policy. Given this, it will help to know when home insurance covers water damage in the basement.
When Does Home Insurance Cover Water Damage in The Basement?
Home insurance covers sudden internal water damage in the basement. The cause of the water damage must have come from inside the home and it must have happened suddenly. Also, the cause must be unpreventable. However, the damage must not have resulted from neglect, lack of maintenance, or flood.
The following are situations where home insurance covers water damage in the basement:
1. Plumbing
Water damage in the basement caused by a sudden burst pipe is covered by standard home insurance. When a pipe bursts at night and destroys everything in the basement, the home insurance may help with the payment for repairs. However, if the pipe burst was caused by poor maintenance or neglect, it will not be covered by home insurance.
2. Water Overflow from the Sink or Tub
If there is an accidental water overflow from your sink or tub that floods your basement, causing water damage, your home insurance may cover the damage.
3. Appliance Leakage
A sudden burst and leakage of water from an appliance connected to the plumbing in your basement is covered by home insurance. Water damage caused by leaks from air conditioner, water heater, washing machine, or automatic fire protection system is covered by home insurance.
Important Note: Water damage in your basement can only be covered if it results from an accident or it is an unexpected occurrence. Meanwhile, water damage in the basement caused by old plumbing, sewage backup, or a flood is not covered by a standard home insurance policy. If the plumbing issues resulted from maintenance issues like failed basement waterproofing, your home insurance will not cover the damage.
Takeaway
From the above, it would help to get additional coverage for water damage in your basement if you think your basement is vulnerable. Relying on home insurance to cover water damage in your basement may be futile if there are traces of maintenance issues.
