Does auto insurance covers water leaks?

A Concise Overview

• Water leaks are covered if you purchase comprehensive coverage
• If the leak is caused by accident damage, collision insurance may cover it
• Comprehensive coverage typically covers flooding, but you will want to check your policy details if you live in an area prone to floods, storms, and hurricanes. 

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If your vehicle suffers water damage in any form, you may wonder, “Does car insurance cover water leaks and other forms of water damage?” In many cases, it does. But you’ll need to ensure you have the right kind of coverage. Read on to learn more.

Before you learn more about water leaks and auto insurance, enter your ZIP code in the FREE comparison tool above to find the best coverage rates in your area.

Does car insurance cover water leaks?

Generally, water leaks from a storm or other flooding event are covered if you have comprehensive insurance coverage. This type of insurance covers your vehicle for damage from storms, floods, and other non-collision events. Note that this coverage will not apply for leaks that come from general wear and tear.

Of course, it’s always best to confirm the details of your policy with your insurance provider to make sure. Additionally, if your car is still under warranty, the dealer may cover the repairs. So even if your insurance company denies the claim, or if the policy you’ve purchased doesn’t cover water leaks, check with your dealer to see whether you can still get the repairs taken care of.

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Does car insurance cover a leaking sunroof or windshield?

Comprehensive coverage usually includes windshield replacement, so a leaking windscreen is covered by insurance in many instances. Additionally, windshield or sunroof leaks that are the result of damage caused by an accident may be covered under collision insurance. An exception would be if the leak is caused by general usage or wear and tear. So if your windshield or sunroof begins leaking after an accident, be sure to file a claim before the leak causes significant damage. Keep in mind that, although your leaking windshield is covered by insurance, you may need to pay a deductible when making a claim.

Let’s look at an example of how auto insurance is determined.

If you have good credit, a clean driving record, and experience behind the wheel, you can save hundreds on auto insurance. These factors can reduce your comprehensive coverage rates and get you the coverage you need to avoid out-of-pocket water damage costs.

Will insurance cover flood damage?

In many cases, comprehensive coverage includes flood damage. It’s still a good idea to discuss the details of the coverage with your insurance provider since it can vary from company to company. If you live in an area where flooding is common, or if your locale is prone to heavy storms and hurricanes, it may be best to also purchase flood insurance. That way you’ll be covered no matter the cause and severity of the flood.

What causes water damage to a vehicle?

Water damage to your vehicle can come in various forms and cause a variety of problems. In general, there are three types of water damage, each with its own list of resulting issues.

• Cabin leaks. Cabin leaks can be caused by faulty door and window seals, damage to the seal around the windshield or sunroof, or corrosion around roof rack fasteners. The moisture can cause moldy carpets and upholstery as well as damage to electrical components. A leaking sunroof, for example, would cause a cabin leak and could lead to extensive damage.
• Engine compartment leaks. Leaks in the engine compartment can happen due to corrosion, accident damage, or blocked drainage. They can cause corrosion, electrical failure, and even malfunctions in the fuel or air-induction systems.
• Flooding. Flooding causes water to enter the vehicle from below, perhaps through lower door seals, firewall access points, or other openings in the body of your car. The result can be corrosion, mold, and failure of electrical and mechanical systems.

The exact cause of the damage often determines whether or not it’s covered by car insurance.

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Car Insurance and Water Leaks: The Bottom Line

If your car develops a leak due to anything but wear and tear and you have comprehensive coverage, you should submit a claim as soon as possible. Comprehensive insurance will usually cover you for water damage that occurs from storms, floods, and similar events. 

It’s good to be careful, however, because certain mistakes on your part can result in water damage your comprehensive coverage may not cover. If you leave your window open during a rainstorm, the insurance company may not cover the resulting damage because it was a result of owner negligence. It’s best to talk to your insurance provider to get details about the kinds of water damage your policy covers.

Now that you know how to get car insurance for water leaks, compare rates. Enter your ZIP code in the free comparison tool to get started with your search for affordable insurance in your area.

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