Which disasters are covered by homeowners insurance?

Disaster coverage by homeowners policy type

Coverage Trends & Considerations:

• Many insurers in high‐risk zones now apply percentage-based deductibles for hurricanes, windstorm or hail damage, rather than flat dollar amounts.
• Some markets are limiting new policies or non‐renewing homes in regions with frequent disasters (wildfire zones, flood‐prone areas).
• Even though a peril may be “covered” under your policy, underinsurance is a risk: rising construction/repair costs mean your dwelling limit may no longer be sufficient.
• Regions with heightened hazard exposure are seeing stricter underwriting, possibly requiring inspections or mitigation features (e.g., wind‑resistant roofing, updated plumbing) for full coverage.

Disasters that are not covered

1. Floods. Flood damage is excluded under standard homeowners and renters insurance policies. Separate flood insurance coverage, however, is available for both homeowners and renters as a separate policy both from the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and from a few private insurers. Learn more about flood insurance—whether you need it, how to get it, and more.
2. Earthquakes. Earthquake coverage is available from most insurance companies as a separate policy or an endorsement to your homeowners or renters policy. Learn more about earthquake insurance.
3. Maintenance damage. It is your responsibility to maintain your home and take reasonable precautions to protect your home from damage. Your insurance policy will not cover damage due to lack of maintenance, mold or infestation from termites or other pests.
4. Sewer Backup. Sewer backups are not covered under a typical homeowners insurance policy, nor are they covered by flood insurance. This type of coverage must be purchased either as a separate product or as an endorsement to a homeowners policy, usually at a nominal cost. Learn more about sewers and sewer backup insurance.
5. In addition to the listed exclusions (floods, earthquakes, maintenance damage, sewer backup), note:
   • Wildfire damage may face higher deductibles or more exclusions in certain high‑loss states.
   • Standard policies do not cover damage from gradual wear & tear, mold, termite/infestation — and insurers are increasingly denying claims based on neglected maintenance.
   • Sewer backup remains typically excluded but is increasingly offered via endorsement; check whether your policy offers this option and at what cost.

What homeowners should do now...

• Review your current policy: Confirm which perils are included, what your deductible is (flat or %), and whether endorsements like flood, quake or sewer backup are needed.
• Update your dwelling limit: With rising repair costs, check whether your coverage matches today’s rebuilding cost in your area.
• Maintain your home: To prevent exclusions, keep records of inspections, repairs, maintenance and upgrades; neglect may void coverage for certain damages.
• Mitigate risk: Consider disaster-resistant upgrades (wind‐mitigation, fire‐resistant landscaping, sump pump, backup power) which may reduce premiums or improve eligibility.
• Stay aware of market changes: If you live in a high‑risk area, talk to your agent early about renewal, capacity changes or alternative markets.

Next steps: Need to settle a claim after a disaster? We're sorry—but maybe these tips will make the claims process easier for you.