Homeowners insurance typically covers sudden and accidental water damage, such as a burst pipe. However, damage resulting from neglect or gradual leaks may not be covered. For instance, if a pipe has been leaking slowly over time due to corrosion, the resulting damage might be considered preventable and thus excluded from coverage.  Moreover, many policies have exclusions for maintenance-related issues. If an adjuster determines that the damage was due to lack of upkeep, your claim could be denied.

The Importance of Regular Maintenance
Regular plumbing maintenance can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems.
Routine self-inspections can help you catch small plumbing problems before they escalate.

Here’s a checklist of what to look for:

1. Visual Pipe Checks
• Examine visible pipes under sinks, in basements, and around appliances.
• Look for signs of corrosion, rust, or mineral buildup.
• Check for drips, water stains, or puddles beneath fixtures. Pro tip: if you aren’t sure, add a paper towel under the pipe, you’ll know if it gets wet!

2. Inspect Appliances and Fixtures
• Toilets: Look around the base for pooling water or soft flooring.
• Sinks and bathtubs: Watch for slow drainage, which could indicate a clog or pipe issue.
• Dishwashers and washing machines: Inspect hoses and connections for cracks or bulges.

3. Monitor Water Pressure
• High pressure can strain pipes and cause leaks. You can use a water pressure gauge to test your home’s pressure—it should be between 40–60 psi.
• If your faucets spray irregularly or seem forceful, this might indicate a pressure problem.

4. Check for Hidden Leaks
• Keep an eye on your water bill. A sudden spike could signal a hidden leak.
• Turn off all water in your home and watch your water meter. If it keeps moving, you likely have a leak.

5. Listen for Unusual Noises
• Gurgling or banging noises from pipes can indicate blockages or air in the lines. If you aren’t sure of the best way to clear air from your lines, start by shutting off the main water supply valve, then open all faucets in the house, including those in the bathroom and laundry, and flush toilets. Wait until all faucets have run dry and then turn the main water supply back on. Let the water run through the faucets for 10-15 minutes, or until the flow is steady and without sputtering. This should clear all air from the lines.
• Running toilets or dripping sounds when faucets are off are signs something’s wrong.

6. Inspect Walls, Floors, and Ceilings
• Look for warping, bubbling paint, or discoloration—these can all indicate hidden water damage.
• Pay special attention to areas behind appliances and in corners of rooms near plumbing walls.

7. Use Your Nose
• A musty smell often means mold or mildew, which typically grows where there’s hidden moisture.
By conducting monthly or quarterly inspections using this checklist, homeowners can stay on top of minor plumbing issues and avoid more costly problems.

You may want to also consider:
•Installing a water leak detector: These devices can alert you to leaks before they cause significant damage.
•Insulating pipes: In colder climates, insulating indoor and outdoor pipes can prevent freezing and bursting.

The Risk of Denied Claims
Insurance adjusters are trained to assess the cause of damage. If they determine that a leak was due to neglect or lack of maintenance, your claim may be denied. For example, if a homeowner fails to replace an aging water heater and it eventually fails, the resulting damage might not be covered.
Additionally, some insurance companies may increase premiums or refuse to renew policies for homeowners with a history of frequent claims, even if those claims were for minor issues.

Learn More: Pipe Dreams: How Homeowners Insurance Handles Plumbing Problems
For a deeper dive into how homeowners insurance handles plumbing issues, check out this informative article by AAA Connect. It provides insights into what’s typically covered, common exclusions, and tips for preventing plumbing problems.

Ignoring minor plumbing issues might seem like a cost-saving measure, but it can lead to much higher expenses down the line. From extensive water damage to denied insurance claims, the risks far outweigh the benefits of putting off repairs. If you’re unsure about your policy or need guidance on plumbing maintenance, consult with your insurance agent, they typically will make time to review your policy so you know what’s covered and what’s not.