Does my car insurance cover damage caused by a water main break?

In some circumstances, car insurance covers damage caused by a water main break. A water main is a large pipe that carries water from a utility company to your home. Some of these pipes are decades old and may not conform to current construction standards.

Normal wear or temperature extremes can lead to a water main break, and these pipes are so large that they can flood streets, driveways, and parking lots, causing damage to your car.

The average cost of car insurance to protect your vehicle from this and other damage is $147 per month. Learn more about the types of car insurance that could cover a water main break, the repairs your insurance company might cover, and the signs that your vehicle sustained water damage.

Does car insurance cover damage caused by a water main break?

Comprehensive car insurance covers many types of water damage, including flooding from a water main break. This type of insurance usually comes with the same policy as collision insurance, and car insurance with both types of protection is often called full coverage. (For more information, read our “Does Car Insurance cover flooding damage?”).

With comprehensive insurance, you can get coverage for damage when your car is sitting still. For example, you could park on the street outside your home, and a water main break could cause flooding overnight.

If you drive through a flooded street after a water main break, collision or comprehensive insurance could pay for it. Collision insurance protects you after an accident.

You could receive a payment from your comprehensive car insurance for water damage and a collision payment for damage from a related accident. Flat tires and other damages are common when people attempt to drive through high water because they may be unable to see and avoid underwater obstacles.

In most areas of the United States, collision and comprehensive car insurance are optional. However, if your policy doesn’t include this coverage, you may not get compensation for your losses after a water main break.

Shopping for the best comprehensive coverage car insurance companies can help protect you from losses after a water main break.

What repairs will a car insurance company cover after a water main break?

Car insurance companies usually pay for any repairs you need after a water main break, including damage to the engine, electronics, upholstery, tires, and other components. If your vehicle sustains serious damage, your insurance company may pay the amount needed to replace it with a similar vehicle.

What are the signs of damage from a water main break?

If a water main break happens when you’re not at home or asleep, your vehicle might look fine from the outside. Signs of water damage can include:

• Stains or dirt on your upholstery
• A moldy or musty smell
• Wet areas
• Rust
• Malfunctioning electronics
• Smoke or strange noises coming from the engine
• An engine that won’t start

You can ask your neighbors about a water main break or contact your utility company. Check your vehicle for damage carefully, and consider taking it to a mechanic if you suspect water damage.

Case Studies: Car Insurance Coverage for Water Main Breaks

Case Study 1: Laura’s Comprehensive Coverage Pays Off

Laura woke up one morning to find her neighborhood flooded due to a water main break. Unfortunately, her parked car was submerged in water, resulting in significant damage to the engine, electronics, and interior. Luckily, Laura had comprehensive car insurance coverage, which included protection against water damage from events like water main breaks.

She promptly filed a claim with her insurance company and provided all the necessary documentation. The insurance company assessed the damages and approved the claim, covering the cost of repairs, minus her deductible. Laura was relieved that her comprehensive coverage helped her recover from the financial burden caused by the water main break.

Case Study 2: Mark’s Limited Coverage

Mark’s car was parked near his workplace when a water main break occurred. The flooding caused water to seep into his vehicle, damaging the upholstery and electrical components. However, Mark’s car insurance policy only included liability coverage and did not provide protection against water damage or comprehensive coverage.

As a result, he had to pay for the repairs out of pocket. Mark realized the importance of reviewing his insurance policy and decided to explore options for adding comprehensive coverage to protect against future incidents, such as water main breaks.

Case Study 3: Sarah’s Unexpected Assistance

Sarah was driving home when she encountered a flooded street due to a water main break. Despite her best efforts to navigate through the water, her car stalled and suffered engine damage. Fortunately, Sarah had both collision and comprehensive coverage included in her car insurance policy. She immediately contacted her insurance company and filed a claim.

The insurance company inspected the vehicle, confirmed the water damage resulting from the water main break, and approved the claim. Sarah’s insurance covered the cost of repairs, excluding her deductible. She was grateful for her comprehensive coverage, which provided financial assistance during this unexpected incident.

Things to Remember About Water Main Breaks and Car Insurance

Comprehensive car insurance often pays for damage from a water main break, and collision coverage can sometimes help as well. If you have after-market accessories, consider a rider for your policy.

Otherwise, most companies don’t cover vehicle modifications. You can compare car insurance and select the best policy for you with our free tool.