Insurance · May 2026
How to File a Water Damage Insurance Claim in Ontario
What's covered, what isn't, and the documentation that determines whether your claim is paid or denied.
Help With a Claim
We document, photograph, and submit on your behalf.
What water damage is covered by Ontario home insurance?
Typically covered
✓ Sudden burst pipes (not gradual slow leaks)
✓ Frozen and burst pipes in winter
✓ Appliance leaks (washing machine, dishwasher, water heater malfunction)
✓ Sudden roof leaks from storms or damage
✓ Accidental toilet overflow
✓ Plumbing system backup (if you have a backup coverage endorsement)
✓ Water from firefighting efforts (if from an insured cause)
Usually NOT covered without an endorsement
× Sewer or septic system backup (requires separate endorsement)
× Flood from outside sources — rivers, lakes, heavy rain (requires separate flood insurance)
× Gradual leaks or seepage (slow drips over time)
× Moisture or condensation buildup
× Water under the foundation
× Damage from neglect (pipe maintenance not performed)
Step-by-step: how to file the claim
1. Contact your insurance company immediately. Call as soon as you discover water damage. Provide your policy number and location. Ask about coverage and emergency approval.
2. Document everything with photos and video. Before cleanup, photograph standing water, damaged areas, and affected items. Film the entire affected space. Keep receipts for any emergency measures.
3. List all damaged items. Create a detailed inventory — furniture, appliances, personal items. Include purchase dates and estimated values if possible.
4. Hire a professional restoration company. Contact us. Your insurer may recommend specific companies, but you typically have the right to choose.
5. Obtain a detailed repair estimate. We provide itemized estimates — water extraction, drying, repairs, reconstruction. This estimate becomes part of your claim.
6. Submit your claim package. Gather photos, inventory, repair estimate, and receipts. Submit to your insurer. They'll assign an adjuster.
The most common reasons water damage claims get denied
1. Lack of documentation. You didn't photograph the damage or document affected items. Solution: Take photos immediately and keep all receipts and estimates.
2. Delayed reporting. You waited days or weeks to report. Solution: Call your insurer immediately after discovering damage — do not delay.
3. No sewer backup endorsement. Your policy doesn't include sewer backup coverage but the claim involves sewer water. Solution: Check your policy. Many homeowners assume they're covered when they're not.
4. Inadequate proof of loss. You can't prove the damage was caused by a covered event. Solution: Document the water source clearly. If a pipe burst, show where it burst. If storm damage, document weather conditions.
5. Failure to mitigate damage. You didn't take reasonable steps to prevent additional damage. Solution: Call a restoration company immediately. Do not leave water sitting.
How we help with your claim
• We assess the damage and provide detailed, itemized repair estimates.
• We photograph and document all damage for your claim file.
• We coordinate directly with your insurance adjuster.
• We work directly with your insurance company when possible.
• We handle all restoration work under your policy's coverage limits.
Frequently Asked Questions
Most insurers approve emergency extraction immediately (within 24 hours). Full claim resolution typically takes 2–6 weeks depending on complexity.
No. You have the right to choose any qualified restoration company. Your insurer will work with your choice.
You can appeal the decision. Review your policy language, gather additional documentation, and submit a formal appeal. We can provide supporting documentation.
Yes, typically. Equipment rental is usually considered part of emergency restoration and is covered by the water damage claim.