Does Renter’s Insurance Cover Water Damage?

Both owners and tenants may find it frustrating when their home or apartment sustains water damage. Particularly if it happens suddenly and damages your personal property. Tenant, you must be aware of the circumstances in which water damage is covered by your insurance.

This article explains what types of water damage aren't covered by insurance, when renter's insurance covers losses, and when it protects you against additional living expenditures.

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Personal Liability and Water Damage

Renter’s insurance protects you from various water damage risks, covering your personal belongings, additional living expenses, and liability for damages. Here are the key instances where water damage is typically covered:

1. Leaks and Overflows: Your policy covers water damage from leaks, accidental overflows, and appliance malfunctions, such as a leaky ceiling or washing machine. Toilet overflows are also covered if it's a one-time occurrence.

2. Burst Pipes and Frozen Pipes: If a burst or frozen pipe causes damage, your policy covers the resulting harm to your personal belongings, heating and cooling systems, and plumbing—unless the damage was intentional.

3. Flood Damage: APOLLO renter’s insurance includes flood damage coverage. If you live in a high-risk flood area, additional coverage like the National Flood Insurance Program may be worth the investment.

4. Liability Protection: If water from your unit damages your neighbor’s belongings or your landlord sues for water damage, your insurance covers liability and legal costs up to your policy limit.

5. Storm Damage: Water damage from rain, windstorms, or hail is typically covered, even if it results from an accident like a broken window or an open window during a storm.

6. Sewage and Groundwater Backup: Damage caused by sewage backups or water seeping from the ground into your rental is also covered under your policy.

7. Relocation Costs: If water damage makes your rental uninhabitable, your policy covers the cost of temporary living arrangements, relocation, and commuting if necessary.

When Doesn’t Renter’s Insurance Cover Water Damage?

Renter’s insurance policies won’t cover damages caused by flooding, sewage backups, negligence, or water damage that occurs while subletting.

Below are some scenarios when you won’t be able to claim renter’s insurance in the event of water damage:

1. Your policy will not cover losses caused by your negligence. Your renter’s insurance won’t cover damages if you left a window or a door open. If you forget to turn off a faucet or leave a toilet clogged, causing flooding to your home, then your policy won’t reimburse you for the damage.

2. Renter’s insurance won’t cover water damage that occurs while you are not living in your place of residence. It will also not cover any damages in the event you have sublet the unit you rent.

Learn: What Does (And Doesn’t) Renters Insurance Cover? & How to claim renters insurance?

APOLLO is Canada’s leading provider of tenant insurance, tailored specifically for renters and customizable to fit your unique lifestyle. Get your free quote in less than a minute and we’ll send your policy documents right to your inbox.

Related: The importance of home or renters’ insurance before holiday travels

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