Water damage can happen fast—and in Alaska, it’s more common than you might think. From frozen pipes to roof leaks caused by ice dams, homeowners across the state face unique weather-related challenges that can lead to serious property damage.
So, is water damage covered by insurance in Alaska? The answer is: it depends. Some types of water damage are typically covered, while others require additional policies or endorsements. Understanding the difference can save you time, money, and a whole lot of stress down the road.
What’s Usually Covered by Standard Home Insurance
Most standard homeowners insurance policies in Alaska cover certain types of water damage, provided the cause is sudden and accidental. That usually includes:
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- A burst pipe caused by freezing
- A washing machine or dishwasher hose failure
- Water damage caused by putting out a house fire
- Ice dams causing leaks (if they result in a sudden water intrusion)
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These are considered “covered perils” under many policies because they are unexpected and not due to long-term neglect. But even in these cases, there are limits and conditions, so always check the details of your individual policy.
What’s Typically Not Covered
While your policy may cover unexpected water events, there are essential exclusions to know:
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- Flooding from natural sources, like rivers, lakes, heavy rain, or melting snow, is not covered by standard home insurance. For this, you’ll need a separate flood insurance policy, usually offered through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or a private insurer.
- Gradual leaks, like a slow drip from a pipe that’s been happening for months, typically aren’t covered. Insurance companies expect homeowners to maintain their homes and catch these issues early.
- Sewer or sump pump backups are only covered if you’ve purchased specific add-on coverage.
- Neglect, such as failing to heat your home and allowing pipes to freeze, may void coverage. Insurance companies can deny claims if they determine damage was preventable.
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Alaska’s Unique Water Damage Risks
Alaska’s cold climate presents its own set of challenges. Common water-related risks include:
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- Frozen or burst pipes: These are a leading cause of winter water damage, especially in homes left unheated or unattended.
- Ice dams: Ice buildup on roofs can force water under shingles and into the home. Some policies cover resulting damage, but may not cover the cost of removing the ice dam itself.
- Thaw and refreeze cycles: These can cause cracks in foundations or contribute to flooding. Damage from thawing snow is often considered surface water and not covered without flood insurance.
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What to Do If You Experience Water Damage
If water damage occurs, here’s what you should do right away:
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- Stop the source if it’s safe to do so—shut off the water or power.
- Document everything with photos and videos.
- Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible to report the claim.
- Get professional help—a certified water damage restoration company like Resto Clean can help you assess the damage, dry out the affected areas, and restore your property.
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Prompt action not only reduces further damage but also helps support your claim with your insurance company.
Should You Get Flood Insurance in Alaska?
If your home is in a flood-prone area or near water sources, flood insurance is a wise investment. Even if it’s not required by your mortgage lender, having a separate policy can protect you from losses that standard homeowners insurance won’t touch.
Even a small amount of flooding can cause significant damage to your home or business. Flood policies can cover both the structure and your belongings—but they must be purchased separately and in advance. There’s usually a waiting period before coverage kicks in.
Final Thoughts
So, is water damage covered by insurance in Alaska? The short answer is that some of it is, but not all of it. Sudden, accidental damage—like burst pipes—is usually covered. But flooding, sewer backups, and long-term leaks are typically not, unless you’ve added specific protection.
At Resto Clean, we work with homeowners and business owners throughout Wasilla and the surrounding areas to not only restore water-damaged properties, but also help navigate insurance claims when the unexpected happens.
Need help now or want to know if your property is at risk? Call us at 907-671-8700 or visit our website to connect with our team. We’re here to restore your peace of mind one step at a time.
