Does My Florida Homeowner’s Insurance Cover Water Damage?

Water damage is a common disaster in west central Florida homes. But when a pipe bursts, a washing machine hose fails, or when your roof or pool leaks, does your home insurance cover the damages? Here is what you need to know about insurance in six water damage scenarios common to Florida.

Water leak from backyard pool ruins your lawn and basement

Swimming pool leaks are not covered by your homeowner’s policy unless the leak was caused by a tree falling on the pool. Furthermore, damage to your basement and your personal property is generally covered, but most damage to your lawn is not.

Swimming pool leaks are more common in central Florida than in most of the U.S. Phoenix has the most pools per capita of any other U.S. city, and Florida sweeps the next three spots, with Miami at 30.6%, Tampa at 27.7% and Orlando at 25.9%. The number of permits for pools in Florida has risen by 30% since 2019!

Washing machine overflows 

Usually, water damage from broken appliances is covered if the leak is sudden or accidental. If you failed to maintain the washing machine, your insurance won’t cover the damage. To prevent washer overflows, check water supply hoses in your Florida home periodically and replace frayed ones.

Sewer backup

Sewer backups in Florida homes are not covered by standard homeowners insurance, but you can purchase extra endorsements for sewers and drains.  

The groundwater is very close to the surface in most parts of Florida, and homeowners in the Lakeland and Plant City areas should check their homeowner’s policies for sewer coverage.

Flooding from Florida natural disasters 

Flood damage is not covered by standard homeowners policies. Floods can occur from storms, overflowing lakes, rivers, or oceans, and over-saturated ground. With Florida’s high water table combined with its average of 51” of rain per year, and miles of coastal areas, flooding is a common occurrence.

If you want to get insurance for water damage caused by natural disasters, you need to get it separately. Learn more at The National Flood Insurance Program.

Water beneath the home foundation seeps into the basement

Homeowner’s policies don’t cover this type of water damage to Florida homes. Seepage is not sudden or accidental and is considered a maintenance problem. Seepage can be caused by pool leaks and heavy rains, two common aspects of life in Florida.

Water leaks through the roof during rainstorms

Florida has the dubious honor of being the fifth rainiest state in the U.S. With over 50″ of rain annually on average, Florida roof leaks are all too common.

If the roof of your Florida home was poorly maintained before the leak, it’s unlikely that it will be covered. However, water damage to your personal items is covered, depending on the type of policy you have. H0-3 policies are the most generous but also the most expensive.

Mold growth in Florida homes

Humidity, high temperatures, and many home construction materials provide the perfect environment for mold in Florida homes. Many home owners are unsure of how to deal with mold growth in their homes, especially when it comes to insurance. Read Can Air Purifiers Remove Household Mold Spores? and Top 9 Myths About Mold Debunked for more information on mold in your Lakeland area home.

With the proximity to so many lakes, like Lake Bentley, Lake Parker, and Crystal Lake, along with Circle B Bar Reserve, and Colt Creek State Park, water and its companion mold are prevalent in Lakeland and Plant City.

Water damage is a serious issue and is all too common in Florida. For professional water damage repair or mold removal service, contact our property damage remediation experts for 24/7 compassionate service.