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: Whether it’s a burst pipe, a malfunctioning washing machine, or an overflowing toilet (as long as it's a one-time accident), your policy typically covers the damage to your personal items.

2. Frozen and Burst Pipes: If freezing temperatures cause your pipes to burst, your renter’s insurance will help replace damaged belongings. However, neglecting to keep your home adequately heated may void your coverage.

3. Flood Damage: APOLLO’s renter’s insurance includes flood coverage, a feature not always included in standard policies.

4. Liability Protection: If a leak from your unit damages a neighbour’s belongings or your landlord holds you responsible for water damage, your policy can cover the costs of repairs, legal fees, and potential settlements.

5. Storm Damage: If wind-driven rain, hail, or a storm-related broken window leads to water damage, your policy likely has you covered.

6. Sewage and Groundwater Backup: Unlike many policies, APOLLO’s coverage extends to damage caused by sewage backups or groundwater seepage.

7. Temporary Housing 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?

While renter’s insurance covers many water-related incidents, there are situations where your claim may be denied:

• Negligence: If you leave a window open during a storm, forget to turn off a faucet, or let a toilet overflow due to a long-standing clog, your policy won’t cover the resulting damage.

• Long-Term Leaks & Maintenance Issues: Gradual water damage from unresolved leaks, mold, or lack of maintenance is typically not covered.

• Subletting Your Rental: If water damage occurs while someone else is living in your unit under a sublet agreement, your policy likely won’t pay out.

• Being Away for Too Long: If the damage happens while you’re away for an extended period without taking preventative measures (like shutting off the water supply in winter), your claim may be denied.

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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