Updated: May 22, 2024
Advertising & Editorial Disclosure
Standard homeowners insurance doesn't typically cover the replacement of water mains or water service lines. However, your policy's liability coverage might offer protection if you caused damage to the municipal water supply line. The water main connects to the local municipal system and isn't considered part of your property. You may opt for a service line coverage, which can be added to your homeowners policy and covers damage to your water service line, but not the water main.
Homeowners insurance typically does not cover the replacement of water mains since they're outside the homeowner’s property.
Service line coverage can be added to homeowners policies to protect against the costs of replacing damaged utility lines, including your water service line from the water main.
Regular maintenance of plumbing systems, including preventing freezing and monitoring water pressure, is crucial for avoiding burst pipes in general.
Under standard homeowners insurance policies, the replacement or repair of the water main that provides your home with water from the municipal water supply is generally not covered. The water main is the property of your town or city and, therefore, would not be covered by an individual homeowners insurance policy.
Similarly, your private water service line is usually not covered. Homeowners insurance coverage usually focuses on the home's structure and its immediate components, leaving service lines like the water service line beyond its scope.
To bridge this gap, insurers offer an endorsement known as service line coverage. This additional protection covers the costs of repairing or replacing damaged utility lines underground on your property, including water lines, due to various risks such as wear and tear, rust and root damage.
Homeowners insurance includes coverage for the structure of your home, personal property inside it, liability claims and additional living expenses if you're displaced from your home due to a covered peril. Homeowners insurance may cover pipes that burst, but since water mains are not part of your property, you'll only be covered by your liability protection in case you cause damage to it.
Homeowners insurance only covers:
Burst Pipes Inside the Home
Damage caused by water from burst pipes inside your home is usually covered, especially if the burst is sudden and accidental.
Water Damage From Covered Perils
If a covered peril (like a fire or vandalism) damages your plumbing and causes a burst pipe, the resulting water damage may be covered.
Accidental Overflow
Homeowners insurance may cover water damage resulting from accidental overflow of a plumbing fixture, under the right circumstances.
Remember, the specific coverages can vary by policy and insurance company. It's crucial to consult your policy or speak with your insurance agent for detailed information on what is and isn't covered, especially for situations involving the water main and service line.
Homeowners insurance policies are designed to protect against sudden and unforeseen events. However, they come with specific exclusions, especially concerning the infrastructure outside your property, such as water mains. Understanding these exclusions is crucial for homeowners to manage their expectations and seek additional coverage if necessary.
Homeowners insurance typically does not cover the following when it comes to burst pipes:
Wear and Tear
Damage resulting from gradual deterioration or neglect of the plumbing system.
Frozen Pipes Due to Negligence
While some policies may cover damage from frozen pipes, they generally exclude coverage if the homeowner fails to maintain heat in the building or leaves the home unattended without proper precautions.
Sewer Backups
Unless specific sewer backup coverage is added to the policy, damage from sewer backups is not covered.
Flooding
Water damage from flooding, which may increase pressure on pipes and cause them to burst, is not covered under standard homeowners policies; flood insurance is required.
If you’re concerned about your water service line from the water main, especially if you have an older home, it may be worth looking into additional endorsements such as service line coverage that can be added to a homeowners policy.
Responsibility for a leaking water service pipe generally falls on the homeowner if the leak is on the property side of the meter. However, if the leak is on the city's side, including from the water main, it's typically the municipality's responsibility to fix it. When a water main or service pipe bursts, here are the steps to follow:
Locate your home's main water shut-off valve and turn it off to stop further flooding and damage.
If the leak is on the city side or you're unsure, call your water utility company to report the issue. They can help determine the leak's location and responsibility.
Take photos or videos of the damage for insurance purposes and to aid in any repair assessments.
For leaks on your property, hire a professional plumber to assess and repair the damage
Check your policy to see if the damage might be covered and consider filing a claim.
Ask the plumber for advice on preventing future issues, including regular maintenance or pipe insulation.
Given that the replacement of water mains and water service lines is typically not covered under standard homeowners insurance policies, proactive maintenance is key. Ensuring the health and functionality of your home's plumbing system can prevent unexpected and often costly repairs.
Here are tips to extend the life of your plumbing:
About Mark Fitzpatrick
Mark Fitzpatrick has analyzed the property and casualty insurance market for over five years, conducting original research and creating personalized content for every kind of buyer. Currently, he leads P&C insurance content production at MoneyGeek. Fitzpatrick has been quoted in several insurance-related publications, including CNBC, NBC News and Mashable.
Fitzpatrick earned a master’s degree in economics and international relations from Johns Hopkins University and a bachelor’s degree from Boston College. He is passionate about using his knowledge of economics and insurance to bring transparency around financial topics and help others feel confident in their money moves.
