What types of plumbing problems does your homeowner's insurance cover? These include burst pipes, leaks, freezing temperatures, and more. In addition, you should be aware of the exclusions to your homeowner's insurance coverage for plumbing issues. If you are unsure of your policy's plumbing coverage, contact your insurance provider for additional information. If you have a burst pipe, it is important to understand your coverage and make sure you are protected.

Burst Pipes

In the event that your pipes burst and cause water damage, you may be wondering whether burst pipes are covered by your home insurance policy. The answer to this question depends on the language of your insurance policy and the type of damage. In most cases, burst pipes are covered if you have a standard homeowners insurance policy. Read on to find out if your policy covers burst pipes.

When pipes burst your homeowner's insurance policy will pay for any damage that a bursting pipe causes to the house and possessions. Your insurance will also pay for hotel expenses and any other additional living expenses that you may incur while you're without a home. While your policy may cover the costs of a hotel, it may not cover the replacement of your pipes if you have neglected your home's maintenance.

Leaks

If you have a pipe bursting, you may wonder if your insurance will cover the cost. While some insurance policies will cover plumbing leaks, others will not. While sudden leaks are typically covered, slow leaks may not be covered. To determine whether or not your policy will cover a plumbing leak, look at the policy's specific provisions. While slow leaks are generally not covered, you can call your insurance company and discuss the matter further.

Many people wonder whether home insurance covers leaks in plumbing. The answer is: it depends. Most home insurance policies will not cover leaks caused by normal wear and tear. But you may find that a slow leak is covered if you're insured for normal wear and tear. Also, if you've backed up your sewage system and had no warning, your insurance may not cover that. So, whether you're looking for a more comprehensive coverage, consider buying a separate policy for this purpose.

Damage Caused by Freezing Temperatures

Insuring against freezing temperatures can be difficult, but there are several things you can do to minimize the effects of the extreme cold on your home's plumbing system. Insuring against freezing temperatures is crucial if you own a home, but you must follow certain guidelines to avoid triggering your policy. During the coldest months, make sure your pipes are well-insulated and wrapped in heat tape. If possible, close up any outside air leaks. Disconnect garden hoses and shut off any pipes leading to the outside. In addition, open interior cabinets to circulate warm air and prevent water from freezing.

While exterior pipes are at greatest risk of freezing, even indoor pipes are susceptible. Unheated areas like crawl spaces are especially vulnerable to freezing, which can lead to major damage to your pipes. The Insurance Information Institute reports that water damage and freezing together account for 29.4 percent of homeowner insurance claims each year. By taking a few steps to protect your home against freezing temperatures, you can minimize your risks of experiencing plumbing damage. If you have a frozen pipe, the first warning sign is to not have running water. If you notice a frozen pipe, call a plumber immediately to prevent further damage to your plumbing system.

Exclusions from Homeowner's Insurance Coverage

Unless you're living in a flood-prone area, home insurance coverage for plumbing issues is generally limited. If your pipes break and cause flooding, the insurance company may not cover the costs of repair. However, you can purchase separate flood insurance for your area. Typically, plumbing coverage excludes sewer backup. This problem can occur due to clogged sewer lines, tree root damage, or city-line problems. Fortunately, most home insurers offer sewer backup rider coverage.

You can ask for a quote from several home insurance providers to find the best coverage for your situation. While the process may vary, many companies have an agent available to answer questions and give advice. Some require you to provide your Social Security number or other personal information to request a quote. The quotes you receive will help you lock in the lowest rates and choose the best provider. But if you have any concerns about the exclusions, you should seek advice from an attorney first.