Does homeowners insurance cover burst water heaters?
Asked by: Hadley Weimann | Last update: July 5, 2025Score: 4.7/5 (56 votes)
Is a burst water heater covered by insurance?
Yes, most standard home insurance policies cover damages caused by sudden and unexpected water damage. This can include a burst pipe, ruptured water heater, or other plumbing malfunctions. Please note, most homeowners policies exclude damage to your home if the water damage is due to a home maintenance issue.
What type of water damage is not covered by insurance?
Water damage from a sewer or drain back-up usually won't be covered on a standard policy. However, most insurers offer optional sewer and water back-up coverage that you can add to your policy for an additional premium.
Are water heaters covered under a home warranty?
Plumbing System: Your home's plumbing system, including your toilet, water heater, drains, waste lines and shower valves are all covered! Other Items: Your doorbell, garage door opener and exhaust fans can all enjoy protection.
What happens when a water heater bursts?
Apart from the obvious threat of water damage, burst tanks do not always automatically shut off, and the heating element could continue to run for hours if nobody is around to shut the power off.
Will Homeowners Insurance Cover Water Heater? - Aurora CO
What do I do if my water heater exploded?
Sediment buildup, excess pressure, and corrosion can all cause a water heater to burst. If your water heater bursts, contain the damage by stopping the water flow, turning off the power, and contacting a plumber immediately.
Is a broken water heater an emergency?
Like with a burst pipe, you'll want to urgently handle a leaking water heater. First, turn off the water, then shut off the unit at the circuit breaker. Once you've shut off the water heater and cleaned up any visible water, call a professional technician for an emergency service.
Do insurance companies cover hot water heaters?
Hot water heater replacement is typically excluded from your homeowners insurance coverage unless it breaks as a result of a covered peril, such as a house fire or hurricane. Because of this, it's often recommended to purchase extended warranties on expensive home appliances that you hope to last a long time.
How do I claim my water heater warranty?
To obtain Warranty compensation you must be able to provide the defective water heater (Ensure that all the parts & rating label are intact) or the defective part(s) replaced; the complete model number and serial number of the new water heater or the water heater from which the defective part(s) was removed; and proof ...
Does homeowners insurance cover heaters?
Fire is a standard covered peril under most homeowners insurance policies. Therefore, a space heater itself and damage caused by a space heater are likely covered up to your policy limits.
How much will insurance pay for water damage?
The amount insurance will pay for water damage depends on the terms of your policy, the cause of the damage, and the extent of the loss. Typically, homeowners insurance covers sudden and accidental water damage, such as from a burst pipe, up to the policy limits minus any deductibles.
How do I make a successful water leak insurance claim?
- Understanding Your Insurance Policy. ...
- Gathering The Right Evidence and Documentation. ...
- Notifying Your Insurance Company. ...
- Working with a Public Adjuster. ...
- Coordinating with Contractors and Restoration Companies. ...
- Reviewing and Negotiating the Insurance Settlement.
Why would a water damage claim be denied?
A chronic or gradual water damage issue such as an ignored pipe or roof leak causing slow seepage over time will typically not be covered regardless of the cause. Property owners are expected to fix issues to their property in a timely manner. Failure to do so can result in claim denial.
Can you get money for a broken water heater?
Water heaters can be worth anywhere between $7–30, depending on the size and materials its made from. The price will depend on whether the tank is recycled as a whole, or if the more valuable parts are first separated. Before you visit, check the current rates for each type of metal currently on the market.
What is the most common damage to your home that insurance does not cover?
Poor maintenance or neglect
Homeowners must take reasonable steps to safeguard their property. In other words, basic maintenance and wear and tear are typically not covered by homeowners insurance.
Can a burst water heater be repaired?
If your water heater has exploded, it cannot be fixed and must be replaced. Bear in consideration that there are several precautions that property owners may undertake to maintain their hot water heaters in excellent working order and reduce the chance of a water heater burst.
Does homeowners insurance cover water heater damage?
It's important to note that standard homeowners insurance policies typically only cover damage to the structure of your home and personal property. They do not include replacement cost coverage for the heater itself.
What is the life expectancy of a hot water heater?
While today's water heaters are better designed than older models, they still require regular maintenance in order to prolong their lives. With regular inspection, draining, and flushing, you can expect a gas water heater to last anywhere from 8-12 years and an electric water heater to last anywhere from 10-15 years.
What voids a water heater warranty?
Your water heater warranty can be voided for being installed outside without proper and adequate protection from the elements. It can be voided for being a residential water heater in a commercial application. The warranty can be voided if the temperature and pressure relief line wasn't run up to code.
Who is responsible for water heater?
What repairs are landlords responsible for in California? As a landlord, your responsibilities in California include: Fixing leaking pipes and faulty water heaters.
Does homeowners insurance cover broken appliances?
Homeowners, condo, and renters insurance may cover appliances when a covered peril, such as a fire or theft, caused the damage. Insurance generally doesn't cover wear and tear damage or manufacturer defects. Optional coverage for electrical and mechanical breakdowns may be available through your home insurance policy.
How long is a hot water heater warranty?
Most warranty coverage terms range between 6 and 12 years. But this usually depends on the manufacturer and terms of usage. As for your water heater itself, most will last somewhere between 8 and 12 years, depending on daily use. A tankless water heater, on the other hand, can last up to 20 years.
Does homeowners insurance cover water heater explosion?
A water heater explosion can cause significant damage to your home, and thankfully, most homeowners insurance policies do cover such events. However, the coverage may be subject to certain conditions, such as proper maintenance and adherence to safety codes.
Can I take a shower if my water heater is broken?
Another option during the warmer weather is a solar or camp shower. These are relatively simple items: You fill them with water (typically about 5 gallons or so), then leave them out in the sun to warm up. When you're ready for a shower, you hang them up and let gravity do its thing.
Who to call when water heater is not working?
But for the most part, you should call a licensed plumber for all hot water heater problems.