Does home insurance cover plumbing?

Plumbing issues can lead to significant water damage and costly repairs, but whether your homeowners insurance policy covers the cost depends on your policy, the insurer, and the cause of the damage. While insurance generally won’t pay to repair or replace your pipes due to age or wear, it may help cover sudden and accidental damage caused by a covered event, such as a burst pipe. 

Understanding what your home insurance covers — and what it doesn't — can help you stay protected and prepare for the unexpected.

What type of plumbing damage does home insurance cover? 

Standard homeowners insurance typically covers plumbing-related damage when it's considered sudden and accidental. Covered events may include: 

• Overflowing appliances, such as washing machines or dishwashers

• Burst pipes, including those behind walls or under appliances

• Frozen pipes, as long as reasonable efforts are made to protect them from elements, such as keeping the thermostat at 55°F or above. 

• Water overflows from toilets or baths 

What plumbing damage isn’t covered?

Generally, your homeowners insurance policy won’t cover plumbing-related damage if it’s caused by one of the following:

• Long-term or ongoing leaks

• Damage caused by flooding (unless you have a flood insurance policy)

• Damage caused by a clogged sewer drainage system  

Further, your homeowners insurance policy will not cover the cost of repairing the plumbing system unless a covered peril damages it. For instance, if a pipe bursts and the resulting water damages walls or flooring, your policy will cover the repair or replacement of the wall and flooring, but it won’t cover the cost of replacing the pipes. 

Other types of coverage to help with plumbing issues

Certain water-related incidents fall outside the scope of standard home insurance, but additional coverages may help fill the gaps.

Water backup coverage

This optional insurance endorsement provides coverage when water backs up through drains, sewer lines, or sump pumps. It typically covers: 

• Structural damage to the home’s foundation, walls, or flooring

• Replacement of damaged personal belongings

• Additional living expenses (like hotel stays) if your home becomes temporarily uninhabitable

Ordinance or law coverage

If your home sustains damage and repairs require updates to meet modern building codes, ordinance or law coverage can help cover those costs. For instance, if an inspector finds that your plumbing system is outdated after a covered loss, this coverage helps pay to bring it up to code, something standard policies typically won’t do without the endorsement.

Sewer line coverage 

Sewer line coverage is a policy add-on that can cover the cost to repair or replace damaged sewer lines or underground utility lines on your property following a covered event. Coverage usually includes:

• The damaged line itself

• Excavation work

• Restoration of your yard after repairs

Filing a plumbing damage claim

Handling plumbing issues and the resulting water damage can be stressful and time sensitive, so it’s helpful to understand the claims process before disaster strikes. 

1. Stop the water flow. Shut off the main water valve to prevent further damage.

2. Document the damage. Take photos or videos of affected areas and property.

3. Start cleanup. Remove standing water and begin drying out the area to prevent mold.

4. Contact your insurer. File your claim through your insurer’s website, mobile app, or by phone.

5. Get repair estimates. Always use licensed professionals, and contact your insurer to see if they have a list of vetted contractors or preferred partners to work with.

6. Save all receipts. Insurers often require proof of payment for temporary repairs or replacements.

How to reduce the risk of plumbing issues

Preventing plumbing damage can save you major headaches in the future. These tips can help you maintain your plumbing system and reduce the risk of plumbing issues.

• Install drain guards. Drain guards in sinks and bathrooms can prevent debris from entering pipes and creating clogs. 

• Avoid putting non-flushable items in toilets or using excessive amounts of toilet paper. 

• Insulate against freezing temperatures if you live in a cold area.

• Shut off the water if you know the home will be vacant, even if it’s just for a few days while you’re on vacation.