Homeowners insurance covers rain damage when it happens as a direct result of a covered peril, such as wind, hail or a fallen tree creating an opening that lets water inside. Here are a few events that are covered:
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Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Water Damage From the Rain?
Updated: September 15, 2025
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Home Insurance & Rain Damage: Key Takeaways
Home insurance covers sudden and unexpected rain-induced damage, such as a severe storm damaging your roof or windows.
Rain damage that occurs as a result of flooding or lack of maintenance is not covered by home insurance. Floods may be covered with an endorsement.
You can purchase flood insurance if you live in rain-prone areas, and sewer line coverage to protect against water backup from an outside sewer or drain.
Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Rain Damage?
Windstorms
Strong winds can rip shingles off your roof or damage siding, leaving openings where rain seeps inside. For example, if a windstorm tears away part of your roof, water entering through the exposed area would typically be covered.
Hailstorms
Large hail can crack shingles or shatter windows, giving rain a direct path indoors. If rainwater soaks your floors or walls after hail breaks through your roof, your insurance usually applies.
Falling Trees or Debris
A tree knocked down by lightning or high winds may crash into your roof, allowing rain to pour in. Since the falling tree is the cause of the opening, repairs and resulting water damage are covered. Homeowners insurance also covers tree removal so long as a covered peril is the cause of the fall.
Fires
After firefighters extinguish a blaze, the damaged structure might be left with holes or broken windows. If it rains before repairs are made, the water damage inside is considered part of the fire loss and is usually covered.
Vandalism or Accidental Damage
If vandals break your windows or a vehicle accidentally collides with your home, rain can enter through the new damage. In these cases, your policy typically covers both the structural damage and the resulting rainwater intrusion.
HOW HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE PAYS FOR RAIN DAMAGE
When rain damage is covered, your dwelling coverage pays to repair the structure of your home, such as the roof, walls or floors. Your personal property coverage helps replace belongings like furniture, electronics or clothing that were damaged by rainwater.
You'll need to pay your deductible first before coverage applies. Deductibles vary by policy and can be a fixed dollar amount (such as $500 or $1,000) or a percentage of your home's insured value (typically 1% to 5% for wind/hail claims). Your deductible amount is specified in your policy declarations page.
Water Damage from Rain: Exclusions
Water damage from rain isn’t covered when it results from ongoing issues, neglect or outside flooding rather than a sudden covered event. Here are a few scenarios when rain damage isn’t covered:
Rain Damage That Causes Flooding
Rain that collects on the ground and floods into your home isn’t covered under a standard policy. For instance, if heavy rainfall causes a nearby creek to overflow and water enters your basement, you’d need separate flood insurance.
Rain Damage From Gradual Leaks
Damage that builds up slowly over time is treated as a maintenance issue, not a sudden accident. For example, if a small roof leak has been dripping for months and eventually causes ceiling stains, your insurer will likely deny the claim.
Rain Damage That Causes Sewer or Drain Backup
Water that backs up through a drain, toilet or sewer line is excluded from most base policies. If a storm overwhelms your city’s drainage system and sewage pushes into your home, the cleanup isn’t covered unless you’ve added special coverage.
Rain Damage Caused by Pre-Existing Issues
If rain gets in through a part of your home that was already damaged or left unrepaired, the loss is excluded. For instance, ignoring a broken window and later filing a claim after a storm soaks the interior won’t be approved.
Rain Damage Due to Neglect or Poor Maintenance
Insurance doesn’t pay for damage that could have been avoided with regular upkeep. If clogged gutters cause water to back up and seep into your walls during a storm, it would be considered a homeowner's responsibility.
Rain Damage that Causes Mold Growth
Most policies exclude mold that develops after water damage, especially if it results from neglect or lack of prompt cleanup. For example, if damp walls after a storm are left untreated and mold spreads, the resulting damage usually won’t be covered.
Additional Insurance to Cover Rain Damage
Heavy rain can cause damage in ways a standard homeowners policy won’t fully cover. To fill those gaps, the best home insurance providers in our analysis offer endorsements or add-ons, which are optional protections you can attach to your policy for an extra cost. These are especially valuable if you live in a rain-prone area where flooding, sewer backups or mold are more likely.
Flood Insurance | Provides protection against water that enters your home from overflowing rivers, heavy rain runoff, or storm surge. | A major downpour causes street flooding, and water seeps into your basement. |
Sewer/Drain Backup Coverage | Covers damage from water that backs up through sewers, drains, or sump pumps. | After a storm, the city’s drainage system overflows and dirty water floods your bathroom. |
Extended Water Damage Coverage | Adds protection for accidental water damage not covered under a standard policy, like certain plumbing failures. | A burst pipe in your wall during a storm causes hidden water damage behind the drywall. |
Mold Remediation Endorsement | Helps pay for cleanup and repairs if mold develops after water damage. | Moisture from storm damage lingers in your walls, leading to mold that requires professional removal. |
Service Line Coverage | Pays for repairs if underground utility or water lines leading to your home are damaged. | Heavy rainfall erodes soil around your property, breaking your water line and causing indoor water damage. |
HOW TO GET FLOOD INSURANCE TO PREVENT RAIN DAMAGE
Flood insurance isn’t included in a standard homeowners policy, so you’ll need to buy it separately through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or a private insurer. Coverage usually has a 30-day waiting period before it takes effect, so plan ahead before heavy rain season hits. Talk to your insurance agent to compare options and find the right policy for your home’s risk level.
Rainwater Damage: How to File a Home Insurance Claims
Rain damage to your home requires quick action to document losses and file your claim properly. Your homeowners insurance covers certain rain damages, so follow these steps to maximize your reimbursement:
- 1
Document the Damage
You should take pictures and videos of all affected areas and personal belongings as soon as it's safe. This visual evidence will be invaluable when demonstrating the extent of damage to your insurer.
- 2
Temporary Repairs
Make temporary repairs to prevent further damage. Keep the receipts of any materials or services purchased as they may be reimbursable.
- 3
Contact Your Insurance Company
Notify your insurance provider about the damage as soon as possible. It will provide guidance and initiate the claims process.
- 4
Keep a Claim Diary
Maintain a diary with dates, conversations and actions related to your claim. This will help keep things organized and can be beneficial during discussions with your insurer.
- 5
Review Your Policy
Understand the coverages, limits and deductibles in your policy to set realistic expectations regarding reimbursement.
- 6
Obtain Repair Estimates
Get multiple repair estimates from reputable contractors to clearly understand the repair costs involved.
- 7
Meet With the Adjuster
Cooperate with the insurance adjuster, who will assess the damage. Sharing your documentation and estimates can help ensure a fair evaluation.
- 8
Follow Up
Stay in regular contact with your insurer, ensuring all requested documentation is submitted promptly and inquiries are addressed in a timely manner.
How to Protect Your Home Against Rain Damage
A few simple home maintenance steps can go a long way in preventing costly water damage from heavy rain. Staying proactive helps protect both your property and your insurance coverage.
- Maintain Your Gutters Regularly: Ensure gutters and downspouts are clear of debris to facilitate smooth water flow away from your home's foundation.
- Inspect Your Roof Annually: Check for missing or damaged shingles and fix any issues to prevent leaks during rainstorms.
- Seal Windows and Doors: Apply weatherstripping to windows and doors to prevent rainwater from seeping inside.
- Install Sump Pumps: Place sump pumps in prone-to-flood areas to promptly remove any water that accumulates.
- Extend Downspouts: Direct downspouts away from the foundation to prevent water pooling around your home.
- Grade Your Yard: Ensure your yard slopes away from your home to encourage water to flow away from the foundation.
- Plant Strategically: Plant trees and shrubs strategically to help absorb excess water and prevent soil erosion.
- Check Drainage: Keep drainage areas clear and functioning to prevent water from pooling and causing damage.
- Stay On Top of Repairs: Address any exterior home repairs promptly to prevent small issues from becoming big problems when it rains.
Signs of Rain Damage to Watch For
Catching rain damage early can save you from costly repairs and denied insurance claims. Here are some common warning signs to keep an eye out for after heavy storms:
- Water Stains on Ceilings or Walls: Yellow or brown spots often signal a roof or siding leak letting rain inside.
- Bubbling or Peeling Paint: Moisture trapped behind walls can push paint outward or cause it to flake.
- Musty or Damp Smells: Persistent odors usually mean hidden water damage or the start of mold growth.
- Warped or Buckling Floors: Rainwater seeping into flooring can cause boards to swell or shift.
- Visible Mold or Mildew: Dark patches on walls, ceilings, or corners often indicate lingering moisture from rain intrusion.
Does Home Insurance Cover Water Damage From Rain: Bottom Line
Homeowners insurance can cover rain damage, but only when it results from a sudden and unexpected event like a storm, fallen tree or hail. Gradual leaks, flooding and neglect are not covered under standard policies, but additional coverages such as flood insurance or sewer backup protection can help fill those gaps.
Does Insurance Cover Rain Damage: FAQs
MoneyGeek answered a few common questions that homeowners ask about rain damage and home insurance:
Does homeowners insurance cover flooding from rain?
Standard homeowners insurance does not cover flooding, even if it’s caused by heavy rain. You’ll need a separate flood insurance policy through the NFIP or a private insurer for that type of protection.
Will insurance cover a roof leak from rain?
A roof leak is covered if it’s caused by a sudden event, such as wind tearing off shingles or hail breaking through. Leaks that develop slowly from wear and tear or lack of maintenance are excluded.
Is mold from rain damage covered?
Most homeowners policies exclude mold cleanup unless you’ve added a mold remediation endorsement. If mold develops because rain damage wasn’t cleaned up quickly, the cost usually falls on the homeowner.
Does insurance cover rain damage to personal property?
Yes, if rain enters your home through a covered peril, your personal property coverage can help replace items like furniture, electronics and clothing. The payout will depend on your policy limits and deductible.
Can I add coverage for sewer backup after heavy rain?
Sewer or drain backup is excluded from standard policies, but many insurers offer it as an optional add-on. This endorsement can cover damage from water that backs up into your home during storms.
Does rain damage affect my insurance premium?
Filing one covered rain-related claim won’t always raise your rates, but multiple claims for different reasons within a few years often do. Preventive maintenance and quick repairs can help you avoid costly claims and higher premiums.
Is Rain Damage Covered By Homeowners Insurance: Our Review Methodology
Why Trust MoneyGeek
MoneyGeek analyzed quotes from multiple insurance providers across the U.S. using a homeowner profile that reflects the average household. By reviewing rates from different locations and companies, we provide reliable estimates of what homeowners can expect to pay.
Methodology
MoneyGeek evaluated homeowners insurance carriers using premium data and insights from the official databases of Quadrant Information Services. This allowed us to create fair comparisons between insurers across a variety of coverage levels.
Homeowner Analysis
For our analysis, we used a sample homeowner profile with the following characteristics:
- Good credit score (769–792)
- Home built in 2000
- Wood-frame construction
- Composite shingle roof
Homeowners Insurance Coverage Details
Unless otherwise specified, we used these coverage limits to gather quotes for comparison:
- $250,000 in dwelling coverage
- $125,000 in personal property coverage
- $200,000 in personal liability coverage
- $1,000 deductible
We also looked at broader policy limits to identify the best options for higher-value homes, increasing coverage to $1 million in dwelling, $500,000 in personal property, and $1 million in liability protection.
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About Mark Fitzpatrick
Mark Fitzpatrick, a Licensed Property and Casualty Insurance Producer, is MoneyGeek's resident Personal Finance Expert. With over five years of experience analyzing the insurance market, he conducts original research and creates tailored content for all types of buyers. His insights have been featured in publications like CNBC, NBC News and Mashable.
Fitzpatrick holds a master’s degree in economics and international relations from Johns Hopkins University and a bachelor’s degree from Boston College. He's also a five-time Jeopardy champion!
Passionate about economics and insurance, he aims to promote transparency in financial topics and empower others to make confident money decisions.