What Is the Difference Between Flood Damage and Water Damage?

Water damage describes destruction from water that originates inside your home. Common examples include a broken washing machine hose, a burst water heater, or a failed supply line under your kitchen sink. Overflow from a clogged toilet or a bathtub left running also falls under this category. This water is often initially clean, but it can become contaminated if it sits for too long.

This water damage is usually sudden and accidental. It often affects a specific area, like a room or floor, although it can spread. Since the source is internal, you can often stop it quickly by shutting off your home's main water supply. Acting fast is crucial to limit the damage and the risk of mold growth in your walls or floors.

Standard homeowners insurance policies typically cover sudden water damage from an internal source. This might include repairing the damage and replacing damaged personal property. However, the same policy almost always excludes damage caused by a flood. This distinction is critical when filing a claim, as the source of the water determines which policy, if any, responds.

For flood events, you need a separate flood insurance policy, usually purchased through the National Flood Insurance Program. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. It is essential to check your specific policy details before an event occurs. Knowing what your insurance covers can prevent significant financial hardship after a major water incident.

For internal water damage, the pros focus on stopping the leak, extracting standing water, and thoroughly drying the structure. They use air movers and dehumidifiers to remove moisture from walls, floors, and belongings. The goal is to restore your home to its pre-loss condition quickly to prevent secondary damage like mold or wood rot. If you live in Chandler, knowing your main water shutoff location helps you act fast.

Flood damage restoration is more complex due to widespread contamination and structural concerns. The process includes pumping out large volumes of water, removing soaked and contaminated materials like drywall and insulation, and extensive disinfecting. Structural drying and repairs are often more extensive. The pros must also address silt and mud deposited inside the home.

• Stop the internal water source immediately
• Extract all standing water with pumps
• Remove unsalvageable, saturated materials
• Clean, disinfect, and dry all affected areas
• Monitor humidity levels until dry
• Perform necessary repairs to structure and finishes