Does a Home Warranty Cover Flood Damage Repairs?

A home service contract covers the repair or replacement of major home systems and appliances. It typically handles failures due to normal wear and tear, such as a broken air conditioner or a malfunctioning water heater. These contracts are designed for mechanical breakdowns, not for damage caused by external water events. They often have specific lists of covered items and clear exclusions for water damage.

Home service contracts almost always exclude damage from floods, groundwater seepage, and storm surges. They may also deny claims for problems resulting from poor maintenance, such as a slow pipe leak you ignored. Damage from hurricanes or tropical storms is frequently listed as an exclusion. Always read your agreement's fine print to see exactly what water-related incidents are not covered.

• Flooding from external sources like rivers or oceans.
• Water damage from storms, hurricanes, or tidal surges.
• Groundwater that seeps into your home's foundation or crawl space.
• Sewer backups unless a specific rider is purchased.
• Mold remediation resulting from water damage.

If your home floods, your first step is to ensure safety and stop the water source if possible. Then, you should document all damage with photos and videos for your insurance claim. Contact your flood insurance provider immediately to start the claims process. You will also need to contact qualified local water damage pros for emergency water extraction and drying to prevent further structural damage and mold.

• Ensure electrical safety and avoid contaminated water.
• Stop the water flow at the main shutoff valve if safe.
• Take extensive photos and videos of all damage.
• Contact your flood insurance company to file a claim.
• Call qualified local water damage pros for emergency drying.
• Keep records of all communications and receipts for repairs.