Insurance policies vary from state to state, so consider this only the most basic guideline about what coverage is possible as it relates to water damage. If the insurance company can prove that the water damage was the direct result of negligence on your own part, then you may find your claim denied. Read through your individual policy or speak to your agent with any questions.

Water damage can be caused a number of ways, from appliances to acts of nature - and can leave a few hundred dollars of damage behind or more. The faster that you find the damage and repair it, the less involved the process will be, but if the water damage occurs in a little used room in the basement and goes on for months or even years before being spotted, the damage can be critical. Not only does water damage leave behind unsightly brown spots and stains, it can lead to weakened floors or walls and allow dangerous mold to grow unchecked. Just tearing up a carpet or rug will not be enough in most cases, and a professional should be consulted for anything more than just a regular, everyday spill. In the case of an insurance claim, it might be imperative to have a professional service to give an estimate of the water damage and the cost to restore or replace the damaged property.

If the damage is caused by an appliance, for example, you might be covered for the cost of the floor and floor covering, but not necessarily the cost of the item in question. With that in mind, you should get into the habit of checking the hoses and connections to your dishwasher and your washing machine often. If your water damage is the result of a leaking swimming pool, the damage to your home and property would be covered, and the pool would be open to debate. The water damage to your lawn, landscaping and other outside items may not be covered, unless you specifically added them to your policy, as is the case in ornamental, exotic or expensive plants. Again, confirm this with your own agent for peace of mind.

With winter time fast approaching, many people will be concerned about water damage caused by frozen pipes. Would that be covered by your insurance? If the temperature suddenly dropped and the pipes burst, then yes, you would typically be covered for any damage that resulted, as well as the pipes themselves. If, however you left the house unheated and unmonitored during the winter time, then the amount that you would be compensated for would be dramatically less. If you are going on vacation in the winter months, it would be in your best interest then to leave the heat on, at least high enough to keep the pipes from freezing. The higher cost of heating an unused home is offset by the savings from damage, plumbers and insurance claims.