detailed view of a burst pipe

Insurance is something that everyone should have, especially when it comes to protecting your home. But, what happens when you are not sure what type of insurance you need? What if you are not even sure if a particular incident is covered by insurance?  Flood insurance is supposed to help individuals and businesses recover from a flooding event, but what happens if the damage is caused by a burst pipe instead? Today we will focus on one particular question: does flood insurance cover burst pipes?  Many people assume that their flood insurance policy will cover them for any type of water damage, but this is not always the case. Keep reading to learn more!

Flood Insurance Covers More Than Natural Disasters

Flooding is one of the most common natural disasters in the United States, and it can cause a great deal of damage to your home or business.  If you live in an area that’s prone to floods, you’re probably familiar with flood insurance. But did you know that flood insurance can also cover burst pipes and other water damage?

While flood insurance will typically cover any damage caused by rising waters, there are some limitations to what it will cover. For example, most policies won’t cover damage caused by sewer backups or sump pump failures. And, depending on your policy, you may have a deductible that you’ll need to pay before your coverage kicks in.

It’s important to read the fine print of your policy to know what is and isn’t covered. If you’re not sure, ask your insurance agent for clarification. In the end, it’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to protecting your home.

Does Flood Insurance Cover Burst Pipes?

Most flood insurance policies will not cover water damage caused by a burst pipe. This is because burst pipes are typically considered to be a maintenance issue, and flood insurance is designed to cover unexpected events beyond the homeowner’s control. However, some flood insurance policies may provide limited coverage for water damage from a burst pipe. In addition, some insurance companies offer add-on policies that specifically cover water damage from burst pipes. These riders typically come with additional premiums and deductibles, so it is important to compare options carefully before purchasing flood insurance.

Burst pipes are oftentimes covered by a standard homeowner’s insurance policy. As a result, homeowners who experience flood damage from a burst pipe will need to file a claim with their homeowner’s insurance company. Homeowners who have both flood insurance and homeowner’s insurance should check with their insurance companies to see if they will be covered for flood damage from a burst pipe.

Circumstances When Flood Insurance Covers Burst Pipes

When a pipe bursts, the resulting flood can cause extensive damage to your home. If you have flood insurance, you may be covered for the cost of repairing the damage. However, flood insurance does not cover all types of flooding.

Flood insurance typically covers burst pipes that are the result of an external flood event. This means that if your home is flooded and the floodwater causes your pipes to burst, your flood insurance will likely cover the damage. In addition, if the pipe burst occurs as a result of ground movement (i.e. shifting soil or settling), then flood insurance may also provide coverage. 

However, flood insurance typically does not cover damage caused by internal flooding, such as a burst pipe due to lack of maintenance. As a result, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks of flooding and take steps to protect your home accordingly. If you live in an area at risk of flooding, consider purchasing both flood and homeowners insurance to help protect your home in the event of a flood.

burst copper pipes from the cold, closeup

What Causes a Burst Pipe?

A burst pipe is one of the most common and potentially damaging plumbing problems. While the exact cause of a burst pipe may vary, there are several factors that can contribute to this issue. One common cause is sudden changes in temperature. As water freezes, it expands, exerting pressure on the pipes. This can cause even well-constructed pipes to burst. 

Another potential cause is corrosion. Over time, the water flowing through the pipes can wear away at their surfaces, eventually leading to a rupture. Clogs can also put stress on pipes and lead to a burst. When a blockage forms, it can increase the water pressure inside the pipe, leading to a rupture. 

 One more common cause of burst pipes is improper installation. If a pipe is not installed correctly, it can become loose and shift over time. This movement can put stress on the pipe and eventually cause it to break. 

To avoid a burst pipe, it is important to have your plumbing regularly inspected and repaired as needed. By taking these preventive measures, you can help keep your home safe from this damaging problem.  Also make sure you have the correct coverages on your home to protect you in case of an emergency.

Sound Choice Insurance Can Help You Find Coverage

A burst pipe can cause significant damage and may not be covered by your standard flood insurance policy. That’s why it’s important to contact an insurance agent like our team at Sound Choice Insurance who can help you find the right flood or homeowners insurance coverage for your needs. We offer competitive rates and our team is here to help you understand your options so that you can make the best decision for your family. If you have questions about what is and isn’t covered by flood insurance or would like to know more about our services, please don’t hesitate to contact us. Our team of experts are here to help you understand your policy and make sure you have the coverage you need in case of a water emergency.