Key takeaways
- Short answer: Standard homeowners insurance covers sudden and accidental water damage — a burst pipe, a failed water heater or an appliance leak.
- Covered: sudden, accidental leaks
- Not covered: floods, slow leaks, neglect
- Sewer backup needs an endorsement
- Typical water damage restoration cost: $1,270–$5,376 per typical job.
Covered vs. not covered
| Usually covered | Usually not covered |
|---|---|
| Burst or frozen pipe (if heat was maintained) | Flooding and storm surge |
| Water heater or appliance failure | Slow leaks over weeks or months |
| Roof leak from a covered storm | Sewer or drain backup (without endorsement) |
| Water damage from firefighting | The broken appliance or pipe itself |
How to protect your claim
- Report it quickly
- Mitigate damage right away and keep receipts
- Document everything with photos and video
- Keep damaged materials until the adjuster approves disposal
Related questions
Is a leaking roof covered?
If the leak came from sudden storm damage, interior damage is usually covered. Leaks from an old, worn roof usually aren't.
Does insurance cover mold from water damage?
Sometimes, if the mold resulted from a covered water loss — but many policies cap mold coverage.
How do I get flood insurance?
Through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) via an insurance agent or from private flood insurers. Policies usually take 30 days to start.
Other water damage restoration questions homeowners ask
Does homeowners insurance cover burst pipes?
Usually yes for sudden, accidental leaks like a burst pipe. Gradual leaks, poor maintenance and flooding from outside are typically excluded.
How much does water damage restoration cost?
A typical restoration job costs about $1,270–$5,376. Clean-water jobs are priced around $3.30–$4.10 per square foot nationally, and sewage cleanups cost more.
How fast does mold grow after water damage?
Mold can begin growing within 24–48 hours on wet drywall, carpet pad and wood, which is why fast drying matters.
How long does it take to dry a house after water damage?
With professional dehumidifiers and air movers, most structures dry in 3–5 days. Rebuilding drywall, flooring and cabinets takes longer.
Is flood damage covered by homeowners insurance?
No. Flooding from rising water needs a separate flood policy through the NFIP or a private insurer, and NFIP policies usually have a 30-day waiting period.
How much does it cost to fix a water-damaged ceiling?
A small patch is relatively inexpensive, but larger repairs that include drying, new drywall, insulation and paint cost more. Fix the leak source first or the damage returns.
What should I do first after a pipe bursts?
Shut off the main water valve, turn off power to wet areas, photograph everything, then call your insurer and a restoration company. Start drying within 24–48 hours.
Can wet drywall be saved?
Often yes if it was soaked by clean water and dried within 24–48 hours without sagging or swelling. Drywall wet with gray or black water should be removed.
Water Damage Restoration at a glance
Timeline
Drying usually takes 3–5 days. Rebuilding drywall, flooring and cabinets adds 1–4 weeks.
Permits
Drying needs no permit, but rebuild work such as electrical, plumbing or structural repairs may.
DIY or pro?
A small clean-water spill dried within 24–48 hours can be DIY. Anything that soaks drywall, flooring or insulation, or any sewage, needs professional drying.
What water damage restoration costs
Water damage restoration averages about $3,250, with most jobs costing $1,270–$5,376. Price depends on the water category (clean, gray or sewage), how much area is wet and how much drywall, flooring or subfloor must be replaced.