If a water pipe bursts in your home, causing significant damage, you might assume flood insurance will cover it. The term "flood" seems applicable, right? However, insurance terminology doesn’t always align with everyday language, as your agent at Idaho Select Insurance, serving Meridian, ID, can explain. This is one of the most common points of confusion for homeowners.

Flood Insurance Has a Specific Definition

In the insurance realm, "flooding" refers to water originating from outside your home, like heavy rain, rising rivers, or storm surge. It involves water covering at least two acres or affecting two or more properties. Therefore, flood insurance is designed to protect against natural disasters, not household plumbing issues.

Burst Pipes Are Covered Under Homeowners’ Insurance

If a pipe bursts due to freezing or sudden failure and damages walls, flooring, or belongings, your standard homeowners insurance policy typically covers such an event. However, coverage depends on the cause. If the pipe burst was due to neglect—such as failing to maintain the plumbing or not heating your home in cold weather—your claim could be denied.

Timing and Maintenance Are Important

To avoid any surprises, review the language in your homeowners policy. Keep up with regular maintenance and take reasonable steps to protect your pipes, especially in winter. Insurers expect homeowners to do their part to prevent damage where possible.

Understand What Each Policy Covers

Flood insurance and homeowners insurance serve very different purposes. One protects against natural disasters; the other handles common household problems like plumbing failures. If you’re unsure about what each policy covers, your insurance agent can guide you through it and help you understand the limits and exclusions.

When it comes to burst pipes, homeowners’ insurance, not flood insurance, usually applies. Your agent at Idaho Select Insurance, serving Meridian, ID, can assist.