When your home or business suffers water damage, your first priority is usually to stop the damage and clean up the mess. Once the water is under control, the next big question is: “Will my insurance cover this?” Filing a water damage insurance claim can feel overwhelming, especially if you're already stressed out by the situation. At Rock Emergency, we’ve helped countless homeowners and property managers in these exact circumstances, and we’re here to walk you through it.
This guide is designed to help you understand how the insurance claim process works, what steps to take, and how to avoid common mistakes along the way.
Key Takeaways:
- Not all water damage is covered by insurance. Sudden and accidental events are most likely to be approved, but other issues may have specialty coverage.
- Act fast: Delaying action can lead to claim denials.
- Document everything before you begin cleanup: photos, videos, and written notes.
- Partner with a professional restoration company like Rock Emergency to help navigate the claims process and avoid mistakes.
- Your insurance adjuster is not your contractor. You generally have the right to choose your restoration team.
- Flood damage requires separate flood insurance; standard policies do not cover it.
- We work directly with your insurer and provide insurance-approved estimates.
- Don’t go it alone—the insurance process can be stressful, but you don’t have to face it without help.
Understanding Water Damage Coverage
Not all water damage is treated the same by insurance companies. Whether or not your loss is covered depends on the source of the water, the type of policy you have, and how quickly you took action. Here’s a breakdown of what’s typically covered:
Covered (in most policies):
- Sudden and accidental water discharge (e.g. burst pipes, appliance leaks)
- Overflow from plumbing or HVAC systems
- Accidental roof leaks (not from neglect)
- Fire sprinkler malfunctions
- Water damage caused by putting out a fire
Usually not covered:
- Gradual damage (slow leaks over time)
- Flooding from rising waters or storm surge (requires separate flood insurance)
- Sewage backups (unless you added coverage)
- Negligence or lack of maintenance (e.g., ignoring a leaky roof)
The key takeaway? If the damage was sudden and accidental, there’s a good chance it’s covered. Either way, every policy is different and the best way to know exactly what is covered is to discuss your policy with your provider.
Step-by-Step: How to File a Water Damage Insurance Claim
Here’s a simplified version of what you need to do when filing a claim. We recommend starting this process as soon as possible to avoid any delays or denials.
1. Act Quickly to Stop the Damage
Time is critical when it comes to water damage. Shut off the water source if you can, and contact a professional restoration company like Rock Emergency immediately. The faster you act, the better your chances of minimizing damage and protecting your claim.
2. Document Everything
Before cleanup begins, take plenty of clear photos and videos of all affected areas, including:
- Standing water
- Damaged walls, floors, ceilings
- Personal belongings or furniture
- Visible sources of the water (e.g., broken pipe, appliance)
This documentation helps prove the extent and cause of the damage, which are both essential pieces of information for getting your claim approved.
3. Review Your Insurance Policy
Take a moment to review your homeowner’s or property insurance policy. Pay close attention to:
- Coverage limits
- Deductibles
- Exclusions (like flood or sewer backup)
- Additional endorsements or riders
Don’t worry if it’s confusing. Rock Emergency can help. We’ve worked with all major carriers and can assist you in interpreting your policy.
4. Call Your Insurance Company
File your claim as soon as possible. Be ready to:
- Describe what happened
- Provide the date and time of the incident
- Share photos and videos
- Explain what steps you’ve already taken to prevent further damage
They may assign an adjuster to assess the damage and determine if it’s covered.
5. Get a Professional Estimate
Your insurance adjuster will likely request an estimate for the cost of cleanup and repairs. As your trusted restoration partner, Rock Emergency provides detailed, insurance-ready estimates that reflect industry-standard pricing.
6. Meet the Adjuster
In many cases, an adjuster will visit your property to inspect the damage. We always recommend having your restoration company present during this walkthrough. We can advocate for the full scope of work that’s truly needed, not just the bare minimum.
7. Begin the Restoration Work
Once your claim is approved and the scope of work is finalized, we can begin restoration. Whether it’s structural drying, demolition, sanitization, or full rebuild services, we manage the entire process and keep your insurance carrier updated every step of the way.
When in doubt, you can take comfort in knowing that when you choose the right restoration expert, they are often able to assist you throughout the entire claims process.
What Can Delay or Deny a Claim?
Unfortunately, not all claims get approved easily. Here are common mistakes to avoid:
- Waiting too long to file: Delays can make insurers suspicious or worsen the damage.
- Failing to mitigate damage: If you don’t act fast, your claim may be denied for “negligence.”
- Incomplete documentation: Without photos, videos, or written proof, it’s hard to verify your loss.
- Poor communication: Not keeping your insurer informed can slow things down.
The good news? When Rock Emergency is involved early, we help you avoid all these pitfalls.
How Rock Emergency Supports You
Through the Insurance Process
We’re not just a water damage restoration company. We’re also experienced guides through the insurance maze. Here’s how we help:
- Immediate emergency response 24/7
- Detailed documentation and photo reports
- Insurance-compliant estimates using industry-standard pricing tools
- Direct communication with your adjuster
- Licensed, insured, and certified technicians
Think of us as your advocate. Our goal is to get your home back to normal and make sure you get the coverage you’re entitled to.
FAQs: Filing an Insurance Claim for Water Damage
- How long do I have to file a claim after water damage?
Most policies require you to file “promptly,” usually within 14-30 days. Don’t wait. File as soon as the damage occurs. - Should I call my insurance company or a restoration company first?
We recommend calling Rock Emergency first. We can stop the damage, help document the loss, and support your claim from the beginning. - Will my premium go up after a claim?
It depends on your insurer and claim history. A single water damage claim may not significantly impact your rates, but multiple claims can. - What if my claim is denied?
You have options. You can appeal the denial, request a second inspection, or involve a public adjuster. We can help guide you through next steps. - Is flood damage the same as water damage?
No. Flooding (from outside water sources like rising rivers or heavy rain) is usually not covered under standard homeowners insurance. You need separate flood insurance for that. - Can Rock Emergency bill my insurance directly?
Yes! In most cases, we can work directly with your insurance carrier to streamline the process and reduce out-of-pocket costs for you. - What should I do if mold starts to appear?
Mold can begin growing within 24-48 hours of water exposure. Let us know immediately. We’re also certified in mold remediation and can help stop the spread.
Let Rock Emergency Be Your Guide
Dealing with water damage is stressful enough, you shouldn’t have to become an insurance expert overnight just to get through the paperwork of it all. At Rock Emergency, we combine fast, reliable restoration with decades of experience helping customers just like you file successful insurance claims.
We’ll walk with you through every step of the process, from the first call to final repairs. We’ve got your back, and your best interest in mind.
Need help filing a water damage insurance claim?
Call Rock Emergency today and let us handle the hard stuff while you focus on getting back to normal.