Does Insurance Cover Water Damage? Your East Texas Guide
Created by: Floodout Restoration Longview
Picture this: You’re getting ready for work in Tyler when you hear water dripping where it shouldn’t be. Your first thought? “Please tell me my insurance policy covers this.”
You’re not alone. Here in East Texas, water damage insurance claims are the second most common insurance claim we file—right behind those notorious hail storms we know all too well. But whether your policy covers that mess depends on more than you’d think.
The Short Answer (Because You're Probably Stressed)
Yes, most Texas homeowners insurance covers water damage—but only if it’s “sudden and accidental.”
That burst pipe flooding your bathroom overnight? Covered. That slow leak behind your washing machine for months? Not covered.
What Texas Water Damage Insurance Covers vs. Doesn't
✅ Usually Covered:
- Burst pipes (especially winter freezes)
- Appliance malfunctions
- Storm roof leaks
- Toilet overflows
❌ Not Covered:
- Gradual leaks
- Sewer backups (unless you buy separate coverage)
- For complete policy details, check the Texas Department of Insurance guidelines.
- Floods (need separate flood insurance)
East Texas Winter Reality
Remember February 2021’s freeze? If you don’t take “reasonable measures” to prevent frozen pipes, insurance can deny your claim. That means keeping heat on and faucets dripping during freezes.
The 3 Costly Mistakes We See Every Week
1. Not Documenting First
Take photos before cleaning anything. “It didn’t happen unless you took pictures of it.”
2. Throwing Away Evidence
Don’t toss damaged items until the adjuster sees them.
3. Waiting Too Long
Report damage within 24-48 hours or risk claim denial.
Real Success Story
The Johnson family in Marshall called us at 6 AM with a flooded kitchen from a burst frozen pipe. We documented everything immediately, understood their water damage insurance Texas policy covered ‘sudden and accidental’ damage.
Result? Full coverage minus their $1,000 deductible. Total payout: $12,847.
“Having someone who knew what the adjuster needed made all the difference,” Mrs. Johnson said.
Your Emergency Action Plan
When water strikes:
- Stop the water source if safe
- Take photos of everything
- Call your insurance company
- Call professional restoration (like us)
Don’t:
- Throw things away first
- Wait to “see if it dries”
- Handle sewage yourself
Bottom Line
Insurance covers “sudden and accidental” water damage. Gradual damage? You’re on your own. The key is acting fast, documenting properly, and having pros who know what adjusters want to see.
We’ve helped East Texas families navigate insurance claims for 20 years. When water damage hits, time is literally money.
Need help with water damage in East Texas? Available 24/7 for emergency response. We work directly with your insurance company. Call us at 903-235-2969 today!