Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Water Damage in Arizona?

Complete guide to coverage, exclusions, and how to file claims

The Quick Answer

YES — Most sudden and accidental water damage is covered (burst pipes, appliance failures, storm damage)
NO — Flood damage and gradual leaks are NOT covered (requires separate flood insurance)
Arizona Alert
Only 1-2% of Arizona homeowners have flood insurance, but monsoon flooding causes 40% of water damage claims July-September

What IS Covered by Arizona Homeowners Insurance

✓ Plumbing Failures

  • • Burst pipes (frozen or pressure failure)
  • • Water heater tank ruptures
  • • Supply line breaks to appliances
  • • Toilet overflow (sudden)

✓ Weather Events

  • • Wind-driven rain through damaged roof
  • • Hail damage causing leaks
  • • Ice dam formation (rare in AZ)
  • • Lightning strike damage

✓ Appliance Malfunctions

  • • Washing machine overflow
  • • Dishwasher leak (sudden)
  • • AC condensation backup
  • • Refrigerator line break

✓ Fire Department Water

  • • Water damage from firefighting
  • • Sprinkler system activation
  • • Neighboring unit firefighting
  • • Emergency response damage

Common Scenarios: Covered or Not?

Burst pipe floods kitchen

COVERED

Monsoon flood enters home

NOT COVERED

AC drain line backs up

COVERED

Sewer backs up into home

MAYBE

Roof leak after hail storm

COVERED

Slow leak under sink

NOT COVERED

The Monsoon Problem: Why Arizona Homeowners Need Flood Insurance

The Coverage Gap

Standard homeowners insurance excludes ALL flood damage — even from monsoons. If water enters your home from ground level (not through the roof), it's considered a flood and requires separate coverage.

The Statistics

  • • Only 1-2% of Phoenix homeowners carry flood insurance
  • • Average monsoon flood claim: $42,000
  • • 30-day waiting period for new flood policies
  • • Cost: $40-125/month for most Arizona homes
Critical Timing

Flood insurance has a mandatory 30-day waiting period. You cannot buy it when a storm is forecasted. Purchase by June 1st for monsoon season protection.

How to File a Water Damage Insurance Claim in Arizona

1

Stop the Water & Document

Turn off water main, take photos/video of all damage before any cleanup

2

Call Insurance Within 24 Hours

Report claim immediately - delays can result in denial

3

Mitigate Further Damage

You're required to prevent additional damage - start extraction/drying

4

Meet Adjuster & Get Estimate

Insurance adjuster visits within 48-72 hours typically

5

Complete Repairs

Use insurance-approved contractors, keep all receipts

Average Insurance Costs in Arizona

Coverage TypeMonthly CostWhat It Covers
Standard Homeowners (HO-3)$150–$270Sudden water damage, not floods
Flood Insurance (NFIP)$40–$125Monsoon and flood damage
Sewer Backup Rider$3–$6Sewer/drain backups
Total Recommended Coverage$193–$401Complete protection

Water Damage? We Work With Your Insurance

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Call (520) 783-3777