What is the Difference Between Water Damage and Flood Insurance?

The impact of water damage can be similar; however, the cause is different. Water damage is different from flood damage because it occurs before water meets the ground.

• Water damage is the second-most frequent filed claim on a home policy
• About 1 in 50 insured homes file a water damage or freezing claim each year
• 250 gallons of water can leak from a 1/8-inch pipe crack per day

Water damage can be caused by water escaping from a burst pipe, an overflowing toilet, or a dishwasher that leaks. A roof that suffers tornado or wind damage followed by hard rain could also be considered water damage.

A flood is an overflow of water that temporarily submerges land that is typically dry. Flood damage can be caused by water coming from a clogged drainage system, a creek or lake that overflows, or even just the ground being inundated with too much water after a torrential storm.

Is Flood Damage Covered by Homeowner’s Insurance?

A standard homeowner policy does not generally cover damage caused by earthquake and floods. These sources of damage require additional coverage or a separate policy.
There are some things you can do to help prevent or minimize water damage in your home, condo, or rental.

Ask your agent for more details or start your home and flood insurance quote now.