How to get insurance to pay for water damage

When water unexpectedly damages your home, the situation can be overwhelming. Whether it’s a burst pipe, a leaky roof, or a flooded basement, homeowners are often left wondering: “Will my insurance cover this?” The truth is, getting your insurance to pay for water damage requires a clear understanding of your policy, knowing the cause of the damage, and taking the right steps immediately.

At Restoration Canada, we specialize in emergency water damage repair and work directly with insurers to help you through the claims process. This guide is designed to help homeowners in Ontario and beyond navigate their coverage and maximize their claim success.

Understanding What Types of Water Damage Are Covered

Not all water damage is treated equally in the eyes of insurance providers. The key lies in how the water damage occurred—specifically, whether it was sudden and accidental or gradual and preventable.

✅ Covered Water Damage (Typically)

Most standard home insurance policies will cover:

Sudden burst pipes
Accidental appliance leaks (e.g., washing machine or dishwasher failure)
Rainwater entering through a storm-damaged roof
Water damage from firefighting efforts

These are considered “sudden and accidental” losses, which are usually part of basic coverage.

❌ Not Covered Water Damage

You’re unlikely to be covered if the water damage was caused by:

Slow leaks over time
Wear and tear or lack of maintenance
Mold or rot from neglected repairs
Water seepage through foundation or basement cracks
Flooding from natural sources (without flood insurance)

These are often considered preventable and are excluded from standard policies.

The Importance of Acting Fast

One of the biggest mistakes homeowners make is waiting too long to report or address water damage. Insurance companies expect prompt action to mitigate further loss.

Immediate Steps to Take:

Stop the water source if it’s safe to do so.
Document everything – take photos and videos of all visible damage.
Call water damage experts like Restoration Canada for emergency cleanup and to prevent mold growth.

Acting quickly increases your chances of a successful claim and reduces overall repair costs.

How to File a Successful Water Damage Insurance Claim

Navigating the claims process can be daunting, but following these best practices will improve your outcome.

1. Review Your Insurance Policy

Before you file, understand what your policy does and doesn’t cover. Look for:

Covered perils
Exclusions
Water damage endorsements or riders
Policy limits and deductibles

If you’re unsure, speak directly to your insurance broker and ask them to clarify any confusing language.

2. Gather Thorough Documentation

Your claim will require proof of both the cause and extent of the damage. Collect:

Photos/videos before cleanup
Receipts for emergency services and temporary repairs
Written statements from contractors (like Restoration Canada)
A detailed list of damaged belongings

The more thorough your documentation, the stronger your claim will be.

3. Work with Insurance-Friendly Contractors

Some insurance providers work better with certified, reputable companies that understand claims documentation requirements. Restoration Canada has years of experience handling these scenarios and ensures proper paperwork, estimates, and real-time updates that insurers trust.

Flood Insurance: A Separate Necessity in Ontario

Flood damage—from overflowing rivers, lakes, or surface water—is not covered by standard home insurance in Ontario. You need optional overland flood coverage or a specific flood insurance policy.

With Ontario experiencing more frequent heavy rainfall and weather extremes, flood risk is growing. Ask your insurer about: