Does home insurance cover water damage?

Posted March 10th, 2025 by SimpliSafe

Water damage can strike when you least expect it, whether from a burst pipe, a severe storm, or a leaking appliance. 

In the UK, home insurance often provides a financial safety net, covering various types of water damage - but the extent of this coverage often depends on your specific policy and the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Understanding what’s included and excluded in a typical home insurance policy is crucial to avoiding surprises when you need to file a claim. Moreover, taking proactive steps to help prevent water damage and knowing how to navigate the claims process can help save you significant stress and expense.

In this guide, we’ll discuss how home insurance typically handles water damage, the types of incidents commonly covered, exclusions you should watch out for, and practical steps to maximise your protection. Whether you're a homeowner or renter, this resource will help you safeguard your home and belongings.

Does home insurance cover water damage?

Typically, yes. 

In the UK, home insurance policies, also known as homeowners insurance, typically cover water damage. However, it is important to note that the extent of the coverage may depend on the cause of the water damage and the specifics of your home insurance policy. 

What’s included in a standard homeowners insurance policy?

When it comes to homeowners, or home, insurance, the policies are normally split into two: Buildings Insurance and Contents Insurance. 

Buildings Insurance 

Buildings Insurance policies provide structural coverage for your home and its permanent features, including:

• Walls, roof, floors, and ceilings: Protection against damage from events like fire, storms, vandalism, or accidents.

• Windows and doors: Repair or replacement costs for damage to these parts of your home.

• Plumbing and electrical systems: Damage to pipes, electrical wiring, or other essential systems.

• Permanent fixtures and fittings: Built-in furniture like kitchen units, bathroom fittings, and built-in wardrobes.

• Outbuildings: Coverage for garages, sheds, fences, and other external structures.

• Landscaping: Some policies may also cover the cost of restoring plants or trees damaged by specific events, like storms.

Contents Insurance

Contents Insurance policies, on the other hand, cover your belongings inside your home, such as: 

• Furniture, clothing, and electronics: Repair, replacement, or compensation for loss due to fire, theft, vandalism, or certain natural disasters.

• Jewellery and valuables: Items like jewellery, art, or collectables may have limited coverage unless specified in the policy.

• Carpets, curtains, and other soft furnishings: Coverage for damage to these items caused by an insured event.

What type of water damage is covered by homeowners insurance?

Homeowners insurance in the UK typically covers certain types of water damage, but the specific coverage can vary depending on the cause of the water damage. 

Here's a breakdown of the types of water damage generally covered by a standard policy:

1. Accidental water damage

Accidental water damage refers to sudden and unexpected water damage caused by an accidental event. It is usually covered under homeowners insurance, and includes:

• Burst pipes: If a pipe bursts due to freezing or wear and tear (though wear and tear may sometimes be excluded), resulting in water damage.

• Leaking appliances: If an appliance like a washing machine, dishwasher, or water heater leaks and causes water damage.

• Overflowing bathtubs, sinks, or toilets: If a bathtub or sink overflows due to an unexpected issue, like a clogged drain.

• Stormwater: Damage caused by rainwater entering the home through a broken roof or window during a storm (though this may be subject to certain conditions or exclusions in some policies).

2. Storm and flood damage

Some homeowners insurance policies will cover water damage caused by storms and floods, but this may be a separate add-on or included as part of a comprehensive policy - especially if you live in an area prone to flooding. What is covered usually includes:

• Heavy rain: Heavy rainfall causing water to enter the house through a damaged roof or windows.

• Flooding from natural disasters: Such as river flooding or flash floods and entering your home, although flood coverage is often optional and may not be automatically included in all standard policies.

3. Damage from roof leaks

If your roof is damaged in a storm or through some other event (like a tree falling), leading to water leaking into your home, this is typically covered under homeowners insurance. This may include damage to the structure and contents of your home, due to the leak.

4. Water damage from fire suppression systems

If water damage occurs as a result of a fire being extinguished by sprinklers or other suppression systems inside your home, homeowners insurance typically covers the water damage caused during this process.

When does water damage not get covered by insurance policies?

Water damage may not be covered by a homeowners insurance policy in several scenarios. Here are common situations where water damage is typically excluded or limited:

1. Gradual or long-term water damage

Insurance policies generally do not cover water damage that occurs gradually over time, as this is your responsibility to catch, maintain and fix. This includes things such as:

• Pipe leaks: Leaks from old, corroded, or improperly maintained pipes that have been leaking for a long period without being addressed.

• Untreated maintenance issues: Water damage from untreated maintenance issues, like a roof leak that has developed slowly due to lack of maintenance or not being repaired in a timely manner.

• Mould growth: The presence of mould, resulting from long-term exposure to moisture (unless caused by a covered event like a burst pipe or storm).

2. Flooding

Standard homeowners insurance does not always cover flood damage - it can often be an add-on or part of a comprehensive policy. This includes water damage from river flooding, coastal flooding, or flash floods, along with surface water flooding, where rainwater accumulates and enters your home due to poor drainage, or where there is no natural flood control.

To protect against floods, you may need to purchase a separate flood insurance policy or add flood coverage as an optional extra, if your insurer offers it.

3. Sewer or drain backup

Damage caused by sewer backups or drain blockages is commonly excluded in standard homeowners policies, unless you specifically add sewer backup coverage to your policy. This type of damage can be caused when sewage or wastewater backs up into your home, causing damage to floors, walls, and belongings.

To protect against sewer or drain backup damage, you may need to purchase a separate sewer backup policy or add it as an optional extra, if your insurer offers it.

4. Water damage due to negligence

If water damage occurs because of neglect or lack of proper maintenance, it may not be covered. This could include things such as: 

• Failure to repair leaks: If you know about a leaking pipe or roof and do not repair it, any resulting water damage may not be covered.

• Not maintaining appliances: If an appliance, like a washing machine or dishwasher, causes water damage and it was due to failure to properly maintain the appliance (like not cleaning filters or replacing faulty parts), your insurance policy may not cover the damage.

5. Intentional damage

If water damage is caused by deliberate actions, such as intentionally damaging plumbing to cause flooding, it will not be covered by your insurance policy.

6. Water damage from poorly installed systems

If your water damage is a result of faulty or improper installation of plumbing or other systems, insurers may exclude coverage. This applies if the installation wasn't up to code or was performed incorrectly.

7. Certain storm-related water damage

Whilst many homeowners insurance policies cover storm damage, water entering the home due to poorly maintained or damaged roofing may not be covered if the damage was gradual or due to inadequate upkeep

8. Water damage from groundwater

In some cases, water damage from groundwater seepage - water coming from the ground up into your home - might not be covered. This can occur when there is no natural barrier to prevent water from entering the basement or lower levels of your home, especially during heavy rainfall.

Steps to ensure water damage is covered by your insurance policy

To ensure that water damage is covered by your insurance policy, it's essential to take proactive steps to protect your home and meet your insurance provider’s requirements. Here’s a detailed guide on how to help maximise your coverage and reduce the risk of water damage:

Step 1: Review your current insurance policy

Read over your current home insurance policies, looking for these key things:

• Water damage coverage: Ensure that water damage from accidental events, like burst pipes, appliance malfunctions, and storm damage, is included in your policy.

• Flood coverage: Confirm whether your policy includes flood damage or if you need to purchase it as an additional coverage - especially if you live in a flood-prone area.

• Accidental water damage: Verify that accidental water damage, such as from burst pipes, leaking appliances, is covered, as some policies may exclude this type of damage (unless you have added specific protection).

Step 2: Purchase additional coverage (if needed)

If water damage from flooding, sewer backups, or other excluded events is not covered, consider adding optional coverage for those risks. This could include:

• Flood insurance: Purchase flood insurance if it is not already included in your policy, especially if you're in a flood-prone area.

• Sewer backup insurance: Add on coverage for water damage caused by a sewage backup or drain issues, if not included.

• Home emergency cover: Some insurers offer this as an add-on for sudden emergencies like burst pipes or leaks, which covers the cost of a tradesperson to fix your urgent issue.

If your current home insurance provider does not offer these add-ons, consider purchasing them from another provider or changing your entire policy over to one that does. 

Step 3: Ensure proper home maintenance

Most home insurance policies will not cover water damage caused by preventable issues. To ensure your home is protected, it is incredibly important that you keep up with your home maintenance, including:

• Plumbing systems: Regularly check for leaks or corrosion in your pipes and appliances. Insurance may not cover water damage caused by neglect, so proactively maintaining plumbing, roofing, and other systems is critical.

• Roof and gutters: Ensure that your roof is in good condition and that gutters are regularly cleaned, to prevent water damage from storms.

• Windows and doors: Ensure that windows and doors are properly sealed, to prevent rainwater from entering during storms.

Step 4: Install smart sensors

Water leak detection devices, such as our water sensors, detect leaks early and can alert you before the damage becomes severe. Installing water sensors around vulnerable areas such as near water heaters, sinks, appliances, or in the basement of your home can help you quickly address leaks to prevent your home from flooding.

Temperature sensors can also be helpful. When placed around pipes, you can be quickly notified if the temperature suddenly drops - helping you prevent pipes freezing and bursting later down the line.

With SimpliSafe, you receive alerts on your phone or through the app if water is detected, allowing you to respond quickly and prevent further damage. Coupled with 24/7 professional monitoring, you can rest assured that your home is always protected. 

Step 5: Document your home's condition

Should you need to make a claim on your home insurance, regardless of the cause, it’s important to have an up-to-date record of the condition of your home.

Regularly document the condition of your home by taking pictures and videos - including areas that may be vulnerable to water damage. This provides proof to your insurance company in case you need to file a claim. You should also retain receipts for any repairs or maintenance work you have had done to prevent water damage, as this can help to demonstrate that you’ve taken reasonable steps to prevent damage - which may be necessary when filing a claim.

Step 6: Know the claims process

Some people might not know how to make a claim on their insurance, until they need to. Take some time to review the claim process outlined in your policy. 

Some insurers may require you to take certain steps to mitigate damage after discovering a leak, such as shutting off the water supply or contacting a plumber immediately. If water damage does occur, report it to your insurer as soon as you can. Waiting too long to report a claim or failing to mitigate the damage could lead to denied coverage.

Step 7: Consider a home warranty or service contract

If your home is older or has ageing appliances, a home warranty may provide additional coverage for water damage from appliance failure, such as a dishwasher or washing machine leak. This can complement your homeowner's insurance by covering specific risks not typically included.

Step 8: Follow up with your insurer

Try to remain in good contact with your home insurance provider, to ensure the policy continues to cover your needs.

Most home insurance policies last up to a year, so take time to review your insurance coverage annually to ensure it still meets your needs - especially if you’ve made home improvements or added water-detection devices.

You can also inform your insurance company if you've installed water sensors or made significant upgrades that may lower your risk of water damage. Some insurers may offer discounts or better terms for homes with modern water detection systems in place.

How to make a water damage insurance claim

Making a water damage claim involves a series of steps to ensure that you are properly compensated for the damage to your home and belongings. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process:

Step 1: Assess the situation and ensure safety

Before doing anything, make sure that your home is safe. If there’s electrical equipment involved, including your home security system, turn off the power to avoid electrical shocks. Then, if possible, stop the source of the water, as this will help to prevent further damage and show that you've taken reasonable steps to mitigate the issue.

Step 2: Document the damage

Once the area is safe, record all the damage. Make a list and take clear photos and videos of: 

• The affected area 

• Any damaged furniture, appliances or personal belongings 

• The source of the leak

• The extent of the damage (before you start cleaning up)

You should also keep a clear record of communication if you need help with the damage. This could include call logs with the emergency services, a plumber or other relevant tradespeople, as they may be required when filing the claim.

Step 3: Contact your insurance provider 

Now that you have a record of the water damage, report it to your home insurance provider as soon as possible. 

Most insurers have a specific time window in which you need to begin filing a claim, to check your policy to find out how much time you have. If you’re struggling to find their contact information, you should be able to locate their number or emergency hotline on your policy documents or on their website. 

When talking to your home insurance provider, be sure to have the following details to hand: 

• Your policy number and personal details

• A brief description of the damage (when it occurred, the source of water damage, and the areas affected)

• Photos or videos of the damage

• Any immediate actions you took to mitigate further damage (such as stopping the water supply or contacting a plumber).

Step 4: Mitigate further damage

Once you have contacted your insurance provider, you can begin to mitigate the damage, to prevent it from worsening. This can include cleaning up the water, drying out the area and making temporary repairs. However, be sure to keep record of everything you do, including receipts for repairs made, as these may be needed later on. 

If your personal belongings have been damaged and you’re able to do so, make sure to keep them for your insurance adjuster to assess.

Step 5: File the insurance claim

Filing an insurance claim comes in two parts: submitting your evidence and filing out your claim form. 

Submitting your evidence 

You will need to provide all necessary documentation to support your claim. This could include:

• Photos and videos of the damage

• An itemised list of damaged belongings, including their value and purchase dates (if you have them)

• A report from a plumber or repair professional if they fixed the issue.

• Any receipts or invoices for temporary repairs or damage mitigation efforts

Submitting your claim form 

In most cases, your insurer will also provide you with a claim form. This can be a paper form, online or via a mobile app. Fill out and return this form with as much information as you can provide. 

Step 6: Insurance adjuster evaluation

An insurance adjuster may need to visit your home to assess the damage in person. During this visit, be sure to:

• Show the adjuster all the affected areas

• Provide any documentation they may require (such as photos, videos and receipts)

• Answer any questions they have about the incident or damage

You may also be asked to get repair estimates from contractors or professionals to help your insurer assess the cost of repairs or replacements. Be sure to get these before the adjuster visits, in case they are needed. 

Step 7: Review the offer from your insurer

Once your insurance provider processes your claim, they will make a settlement offer. 

This could either be coverage for repair or replacement costs (less than your policy excess) or a cash settlement based on the cost to repair or replace the damaged property. Be prepared that your policy may require you to pay an excess fee, which will be deducted from the payout. 

If you disagree with the settlement offer, you can appeal or negotiate with your insurer. This may require additional evidence or estimates to support your case.

Step 8: Complete repairs and submit invoices

If you agree with the settlement your insurer offered, you can then begin making repairs to your home or replacing your damaged items. Be sure to keep receipts for any repair work or replacement costs you incur, as you may need to submit these to be reimbursed. 

Step 9: Prevent future water damage

Unfortunately, we aren’t always prepared for something to go wrong in your home, but it can be a valuable lesson too. 

After filing the claim and addressing the damage, consider taking proactive steps to reduce the risk of future water damage. This could include things such as installing water sensors and planning preventative maintenance to your home. 

Common challenges when filing an insurance claim for water damage (and how to mitigate them)

Filing an insurance claim for water damage can be complex, and there can be several common challenges that homeowners may face during this process. However, with the right steps and preparation, you can mitigate these challenges. 

Here are the most frequent issues and tips on how to handle them:

1. Disputes over the cause of damage

Sometimes, insurance providers may question the cause of water damage - particularly if it’s not clear whether it was due to a sudden event (covered by insurance) or gradual damage (which may not be covered).

Make sure to document everything, including the damage and source of the leak, before cleaning up. If you too are unsure of the cause, consider getting a professional third-party assessment done to provide a written report. If you have evidence of regular maintenance before the water damage occurred, this can also be helpful in providing the damage wasn’t caused by neglect. 

2. Underestimating the severity of damage

Some homeowners may overlook the extent of water damage, or they may fail to realise how much damage has occurred beneath the surface, such as mold growth or structural damage.

After documenting visible damage, make sure to inspect areas that may have been affected but are not immediately visible, such as under carpets and behind walls, for signs of mould, rot or dampness. Professional inspectors can also help to assess hidden damage, such as water damage to drywalls or subfloors. 

3. Disputes over policy coverage

Insurance providers may deny or reduce the claim if they believe it falls outside of your policy’s coverage, such as damage caused by flooding, sewer backups, or long-term leaks.

Make sure you have a full understanding of your policy, and confirm this with your insurer, before filing your claim. This can help to manage your expectations moving forward. 

4. Claim denials due to delayed reporting

Failing to report water damage within the required timeframe can lead to a claim denial, as most policies have strict time limits for filing.

It is important to notify your insurance provider as soon as you discover water damage - most insurers require claims to be reported within 24-48 hours of the damage. Make sure to keep track of all communication with your insurer, including when you first reported the issue and any follow-up actions you took, as this can be used as evidence if there is any dispute over timing. 

5. Underpayment or inadequate compensation

Insurance providers may offer less money than expected or dispute the value of the damaged property, leading to disagreements about the settlement.

If you plan to dispute the settlement, obtain quotes from professionals to provide evidence of the cost of repairs that need to be taken and keep receipts for any temporary repairs you’ve made in the meantime (as these could be reimbursed). You are well within your rights to dispute, negotiate, or request an independent review if you are not satisfied with the offer. 

6. Difficulty in proving damages

It can often be difficult to prove the extent of the water damage, particularly when it comes to damaged personal property, electronics, or furniture.

Prior to any home emergency, consider keeping an up-to-date inventory of your valuable items. This should include photos, serial numbers, and receipts to easily prove ownership and value when filing a claim.

For any damaged property, take multiple photos from different angles and document the condition of items before and after the damage, and note their approximate value. If possible, provide receipts or bank statements showing when and where you purchased damaged items, as this can add weight to your claim for reimbursement.

7. Difficulties with adjusters

If an insurance adjuster visits your home, they may undervalue your claim or miss key damage when conducting their inspection.

It’s important to be well-prepared for the adjuster's visit. Have all your documentation ready, including photos, repair estimates, and any other evidence that supports your claim. Walk the adjuster through all affected areas of your home and point out any hidden damage they might not immediately notice - including areas that may require repair but aren’t immediately visible such as inside walls or beneath flooring.

If you're unsatisfied with the adjuster's evaluation, consider hiring a third-party expert to inspect the damage and provide an opinion in writing that you can provide to your insurer.

8. Mould or secondary damage

Mould or other secondary damage, such as rot, may develop after the initial water damage, and some policies may not cover this or may have limitations on mould damage.

After discovering water damage, take immediate action to dry out the affected area by using fans, dehumidifiers, or professional drying services. The quicker you respond, the lower the risk of mould and secondary damage.

If you discover mould or other secondary damage after reporting your initial claim, contact your insurer immediately. If your policy doesn’t cover mould, you might be able to add it onto your policy for future claims or to mitigate mould risks going forward.

*All insurance policies will differ, confirm the terms and conditions with your provider. Looking for ways to provide complete home safety and security? Contact our helpful team today to discover how a bespoke security system could help. From water and temperature sensors to alarms and cameras, protect your home from harm with SimpliSafe.