Home insurance policies generally cover "sudden and accidental" plumbing issues. If a pipe suddenly bursts or leaks and causes water damage, your insurance may cover the cost to repair the water damage. However, whether or not the actual plumbing repair is covered depends on the policy. For instance, while the resulting water damage might be covered, the cost to fix the pipe itself might not be.

Common plumbing-related situations covered by home insurance include:

• Burst pipes: If your pipes burst due to freezing or pressure buildup and it results in water damage, your policy will likely cover the resulting damage.
• Water damage from a sudden leak: If a leak causes damage to your floors, walls, or belongings, the repair and replacement costs could be covered.

Home insurance does not typically cover damage caused by lack of maintenance or wear and tear. If your plumbing fails because the pipes are old and rusty or you’ve neglected repairs, your insurer may deny your claim. Here are a few scenarios where you might not be covered:

• Gradual leaks or deterioration: If the damage happens over time, like a slow leak that you've ignored, the insurance company may consider this neglect or poor maintenance.
• Sewage backups: Most standard home insurance policies do not cover water damage caused by sewage backups unless you’ve purchased a separate sewage backup endorsement.
• Flood damage: Damage from floods, including those caused by storms or overflowing bodies of water, is typically not covered unless you have flood insurance.

There are additional coverages you can consider to protect yourself from common plumbing problems that might not be included in a standard home insurance policy. These include:

• Water Backup Coverage: This add-on will protect your home from damage caused by backed-up sewers or sump pumps.
• Flood Insurance: Since standard policies don’t cover flooding, if you live in a flood-prone area, it’s essential to have a separate flood insurance policy.
• Service Line Coverage: This policy helps cover the cost of repairing or replacing damaged underground pipes that deliver water, gas, or electricity to your home.

If you experience a plumbing issue, take the following steps:

1. Stop the water: If you’re able, shut off the water source to prevent further damage.
2. Document the damage: Take pictures and videos of the damage before making repairs. This documentation can be helpful when filing a claim.
3. Contact your insurance company: Let your insurer know about the situation and inquire about the extent of your coverage. They may send an adjuster to assess the damage.
4. Call a professional plumber: Make sure to hire a licensed and experienced plumber to resolve the issue.

At Fry Plumbing, Heating, and Air Conditioning Corp., we recommend regular maintenance of your plumbing system to avoid preventable issues. If you need assistance or have questions about your home’s plumbing, feel free to contact us. We’re always here to help with professional service and reliable advice.