Many homeowners assume that all types of water damage qualify for a flood insurance claim, including damage from a burst pipe. However, flood insurance has very specific criteria. Insurance companies in League City, TX follow strict guidelines to determine whether water damage qualifies as flooding.
Internal Damage
Water damage that originates inside the home does not typically qualify as flooding under a flood insurance policy. Damage from a burst pipe, a rusted water heater, or a broken washing machine hose is considered an internal plumbing issue. These types of losses are usually handled under a homeowner’s insurance policy, not a flood policy.
Areas That Are Flooded
Flood insurance coverage depends on the scale and source of the flooding. Many policies require that at least 2 acres of normally dry land, or multiple properties, be submerged by rising water. Water that affects only your yard may not qualify as a flood. Marshy or consistently wet areas may have different criteria. An agent at ACU Insurance Services can help explain how these rules apply to your specific property.
Ground Up Criteria
To meet the definition of a flood, water must rise from the ground. This can happen when a river overflows, when water gradually accumulates due to heavy rainfall, or when natural bodies of water rise, causing inland flooding. Water that comes from above, such as from a roof leak, does not meet the ground-up definition and is not considered flood damage under a flood policy.
Leaking Roofs
It is a common misconception that all storm-related water damage is covered by flood insurance. For example, if heavy rain causes both outdoor flooding and a leaking roof, only the damage caused by rising water would qualify as flood-related. Roof leak damage must be addressed through a homeowner’s insurance policy, not flood insurance.
The agents at ACU Insurance Services can help you understand the criteria for flood-related claims and ensure you have the coverage you need. Contact us today. We proudly serve the League City, TX area.
