What Plumbing Issues Are Not Covered by Home or Landlord Insurance?

When it comes to plumbing problems, many homeowners and landlords are surprised to learn that their insurance won’t cover many water-related issues. That’s because insurance is designed to protect you from sudden and accidental losses—not gradual wear, neglect, or routine maintenance. Below are the most common plumbing problems that insurance will NOT cover, and why.

Maintenance Plumbing Issues Usually Not Covered

1. Wear-and-Tear / Aging Pipes

Insurance doesn’t cover problems caused by slow deterioration. This includes rusted pipes, corroded plumbing, aging systems, and slow leaks that worsen over time. These are considered normal homeowner responsibilities.

2. Slow or Repeated Leaks

If a leak has gone on for weeks or months, insurance typically denies it. This includes hidden leaks that cause mold, drips under sinks, or damage from not fixing a known issue. Coverage requires a sudden, accidental event.

3. Clogged Drains or Sewer Lines (Routine Issues)

Not covered when caused by tree roots, grease buildup, wipes or hygiene products, foreign objects, or mineral deposits. Clearing blockages is usually an out-of-pocket repair unless a covered peril caused the damage.

4. Failed Sump Pumps (Without Additional Coverage)

Standard policies don’t cover sump pump failure or water backup damage. You need a water backup rider or endorsement for this type of loss.

5. Poor Installation or DIY Mistakes

Insurance won’t cover issues caused by improper installation, bad DIY plumbing, incorrectly fitted joints, or contractor errors. Damage from contractors must be claimed through their liability insurance.

6. Mold From Long-Term Moisture

Mold caused by slow leaks, moisture buildup, or lack of ventilation is normally excluded. Only mold resulting from a sudden, covered incident is eligible for coverage.

7. Outdated or Neglected Plumbing Fixtures

Old or worn-out fixtures like failing water heaters, deteriorating toilet seals, or leaky faucets aren’t covered. Replacing old plumbing components is considered routine home maintenance.

8. Frozen Pipes Due to Neglect

If frozen pipes occur because you didn’t heat the home properly or failed to insulate exposed pipes, the claim may be denied. Insurance only covers frozen pipe damage when reasonable precautions were taken.

9. Septic Tank Maintenance

Insurance typically does not cover routine septic pumping, drain field failure, blockages from neglect, or wear and tear. Only sudden, accidental damage might be eligible.

✔️ General Rule of Thumb

Insurance covers: Sudden, accidental water damage such as burst pipes.
Insurance does NOT cover: Ongoing leaks, deterioration, aging systems, or preventable maintenance issues.