Water damage claims guide
Sudden and accidental is covered. Gradual leaks usually aren't.
Water damage is the most common homeowners claim — and the most frequently disputed. The key distinction is sudden vs. gradual.
What to document
Photos and video of the water source, the path of water travel, and all affected areas
Photos of damaged personal property in place before moving anything
The date you first noticed the damage — this matters for the sudden vs. gradual determination
Receipts for emergency water extraction, drying equipment, and temporary repairs
Plumber's report identifying the source and cause of the water intrusion
Photos of any mold — document it before remediation begins
What adjusters look for
Sudden and accidental vs. gradual — a burst pipe is covered; a slow leak over months typically isn't
Maintenance neglect — adjusters look for evidence that the homeowner knew about the issue and didn't act
Mold — coverage varies significantly by policy; some policies sublimit or exclude mold remediation
The source of the water — sewer backup requires a separate endorsement on most policies
Common mistakes to avoid
Cleaning up before documenting — take photos and video before any extraction or drying begins
Assuming sewer backup is covered — it typically requires a separate endorsement
Not acting quickly — you have a duty to mitigate further damage. Delays can give the carrier grounds to reduce the claim.
Ignoring mold — document it immediately. Mold remediation costs can exceed the original water damage.
Need help with a claim in progress?
The RightQuote team can review your claim situation, connect you with a public adjuster if needed, and make sure you're not leaving money on the table.