Water Damage Insurance Claims in California
What is usually covered, what usually isn’t, and the rules your insurer has to follow. General information, not legal advice.
Call (747) 500-1000What Is Usually Covered
Most homeowners policies cover sudden and accidental water damage: a burst pipe, a split supply line, a failed water heater or an appliance that suddenly leaks. The policy usually pays to dry and repair the damage, but not to fix the part that failed.
What Usually Isn’t
- Slow leaks and seepage over weeks or months.
- Flood and surface water from outside, which needs separate flood insurance, often through the National Flood Insurance Program.
- Sewer and drain backups, unless you have a water backup endorsement.
- Mold beyond a set limit, or mold from a non-covered cause.
- Wear, tear and lack of maintenance.
Rules Insurers Follow in California
- An insurer must acknowledge your claim within 15 calendar days of receiving notice.
- Once it has proof of claim, it generally has 40 days to accept or deny, in whole or in part.
- A denial must be in writing and explain the reasons.
- Questions or complaints can go to the California Department of Insurance consumer hotline at 1-800-927-4357.
Your Part
- Report the loss promptly.
- Take reasonable steps to prevent further damage, like stopping the water and starting drying.
- Document everything with photos, video and receipts.
- Keep damaged items, or at least photos and a list, until the adjuster has seen them.
- Get the adjuster’s name, the claim number and everything important in writing.
How Documentation Helps
A drying company’s daily moisture readings, photos and a line-item estimate show what got wet, what was removed and why, and when it was dry. That record answers most of the questions an adjuster will ask.
Common Questions
Do I have to use the restoration company my insurer recommends?
In most cases you can choose who does the work. Check your policy and talk to your adjuster.
Will mold be covered?
It depends on your policy and the cause. Many policies cover mold only from a covered water loss and cap the amount.
What if my claim is denied?
Ask for the reason in writing, review your policy and contact the California Department of Insurance if you disagree with how it was handled.
Tell Us What Happened.
- Call or Text
- (747) 500-1000
- Service Area
- Los Angeles, CA
- Working Hours
- 24/7