4 Types of Water Damage Coverages Available For Texas Home Insurance Policies

As the anniversary of Snowmageddon 2021 draws near, I find myself pondering the extensive water damage that occurred. While I may not have a foolproof guide to preventing pipe bursts in the absence of electricity or heat, it’s essential to understand the variety of water-related claims and their coverage status.

1. Sudden and Accidental Leaks:
   • Description: Rapid water leaks, often resulting from pipe or plumbing system malfunctions. An instance of this is what I refer to as internal house flooding, typically involving just a few inches of water.
   • Coverage: Under the prevalent HO3 homeowners policy in Texas, these leaks are covered up to the policy’s limits.
2. Seepage and Leakage:
   • Description: Slow, often unnoticeable water leaks, perhaps a few tablespoons daily. Over an extended period, these minor leaks can cause substantial damage. Typical occurrences might be under bathtubs or kitchen sinks where it’s easily overlooked.
   • Coverage: Varies depending on the policy and the extent of damage.
3. Water Backup:
   • Description: This pertains to contaminated water intended for city drains reversing its course. Instances include bathtubs filling with dirty water and even overflowing, leading to potential floor and wall damage.
   • Coverage: It’s advisable to have this covered in your policy.
4. External House Flooding:
   • Description: This refers to floods stemming from external sources.
   • Coverage: Exclusively covered by a separate FLOOD policy and not by regular homeowners’ insurance.

According to FEMA, a flood is described as a temporary inundation affecting 2 or more acres or properties resulting from:

• Overflow of inland or tidal waters;
• Rapid accumulation or runoff of surface waters;
• Mudflows;
• Land collapse near water bodies due to erosion or waves exceeding expected levels.

What Doesn’t Qualify for Coverage?

A challenging water issue not covered by any policy is improper drainage, often when a yard slopes towards a house’s back door, allowing rainwater entry. This won’t be covered by Flood insurance (as it doesn’t affect multiple properties or acres) nor homeowners’ policy (as it’s deemed rising water).

Possible Solutions:

• Opt against purchasing homes with unfavorable yard slopes.
• Set up a French drain to redirect water away.
• Introduce a sump pump to pump water away from the house, though it’s electricity-dependent.

In conclusion, water damage ranks high among insurance claims. Being informed is the first step in ensuring your home remains protected.