Water Damage Coverage Questions to Ask Your Insurer or Broker

Identify the source as accurately as possible

• Where did the water first enter or release?
• Was the event sudden, recurring or gradual?
• Did sewer or drain water enter the building?
• Did surface water enter from outside?
• Did wind or hail create an opening before rain entered?
• Was maintenance, wear, deterioration or an existing defect involved?

Questions for the insurer or broker

• Which policy section or endorsement applies to this cause?
• What deductible, sublimit or exclusion applies?
• Are emergency extraction and drying authorized before an adjuster attends?
• What photographs, receipts, inventories and contractor records are required?
• Does reconstruction require prior approval or multiple estimates?
• Are additional living expenses or business-interruption expenses potentially available under the policy?

Optional water coverages

• Sewer backup and overland flood coverage are commonly optional rather than automatically included.
• Availability, limits and deductibles depend on the insurer, property and policy.
• Review coverage before a loss and keep a current copy of endorsements and contact information.

Keep roles clear

• The insurer determines coverage and claim payment.
• The adjuster evaluates the claim for the insurer.
• The restoration contractor documents site conditions and performs authorized work.
• Licensed trades, engineers or other specialists address issues within their professional scope.

Water damage insurance claim guide

Sewage backup insurance claims

Information for insurance professionals