When a disaster strikes your home—whether it’s a flood, fire, or storm—you’ll likely wonder: “Is this covered by insurance?” The answer depends on the cause of the damage and the terms of your policy. Understanding what’s covered (and what’s not) can help you act quickly and reduce financial stress.

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1. Water Damage: Often Covered, But With Conditions

Covered:

• Burst pipes

• Sudden appliance leaks

• Water from firefighting efforts

Not Covered:

• Gradual leaks over time

• Sewer or drain backups (unless you have add-on coverage)

• Flooding from natural disasters (requires separate flood insurance)

Tip:

Review your policy and consider adding backup sewer or sump pump coverage if it’s not already included.

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2. Fire Damage: Almost Always Covered

Fire is one of the most commonly covered events under homeowners insurance. It typically includes:

• Structural damage

• Smoke and soot cleanup

• Damaged personal belongings

Exceptions:

If the fire was caused by negligence or arson, coverage may be denied.

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3. Mold Damage: Sometimes Covered

Mold is tricky when it comes to insurance.

Covered:

• Mold that results from a covered peril like a burst pipe or storm-related water intrusion.

Not Covered:

• Mold from neglected maintenance, humidity, or long-term leaks.

• Black mold that developed slowly over time.

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4. Storm Damage: Depends on the Type of Storm

Covered:

• Wind, hail, and lightning damage

• Tree falls due to storms

• Roof and siding damage from wind-driven rain

Not Covered:

• Flooding due to hurricanes or rising ground water unless you have flood insurance

• Earth movement (requires separate earthquake insurance)

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5. Temporary Living Expenses: Often Included

If your home becomes uninhabitable due to a covered emergency, most policies include Additional Living Expenses (ALE) to cover:

• Hotel stays

• Food

• Laundry

• Transportation

Always save your receipts for reimbursement.

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FAQs

Q1. How do I know what’s covered in my policy?
Read your policy documents and speak with your insurance agent. Coverage can vary by provider and location.

Q2. Will filing a claim raise my premiums?
Possibly. Frequent or large claims can lead to increased premiums or policy non-renewal.

Q3. Should I wait before calling my insurer?
No—report damage ASAP. Delays can lead to denied claims or further damage.

Q4. Is flood insurance part of my homeowners policy?
No. It’s a separate policy offered by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or private insurers.

Q5. Can I choose my own restoration company?
Yes. You’re not required to use the provider recommended by your insurer—choose who you trust.