A slab leak or a broken pipe under your home’s concrete foundation can threaten your property and peace of mind. But when disaster strikes, one question matters most: Will your home insurance cover the damage caused by broken pipes under a slab?
The Short Answer
Homeowners insurance often covers damage to your home’s structure and belongings caused by a sudden, accidental pipe break under your slab—if the incident involves a “covered peril.” However, most policies exclude coverage for the repair of the broken pipe itself and any damage from gradual causes like wear and tear or soil settling.
A slab leak refers to a water line break or leak that occurs beneath the concrete foundation (“slab”) of your home. Symptoms include suddenly higher water bills, musty odors, low water pressure, cracks in floors or walls, damp carpets, or the sound of running water when all taps are closed. If you notice these signs, consult a licensed plumber and contact your insurance agent immediately.
Home insurance is designed to protect against sudden and accidental perils. Here’s when you’re typically protected:
In these scenarios, the dwelling portion of your policy can help pay for:
Tearing out and replacing the slab to access the damaged pipe
Repairing water damage to your home’s structure and (if specified) personal property
However, standard policies do not cover repair of the broken pipe itself, nor do they pay for damage caused by maintenance issues.
Insurance companies generally do not cover the following causes:
In these cases, homeowners are responsible for the repairs out-of-pocket.
Fixing a slab leak isn’t cheap. Nationwide, slab leak detection costs average about $150–$600, while repair costs commonly range from $2,000 to over $4,000—sometimes more for extensive water or structural damage. Remember that you’ll also need to pay your policy deductible, and water damage claims may affect future premiums.
Consider adding service line coverage or water backup endorsements to your homeowners policy. These riders can help cover pipe repairs or underground utility lines that break due to causes generally excluded by basic home insurance. Discuss these options with your agent.
Every policy and every home is unique. At Spotlight Insurance Agency, we understand the risks Colorado homeowners face, from sudden bursts during freezing temperatures to shifting soils. Our tailored approach ensures you have the right coverage for your family, your property, and your peace of mind.
Uncertainty doesn’t protect your home, but the right insurance partner does. Contact us today at Spotlight Insurance Agency today for a free, no-obligation policy review. We’ll help you understand your current coverage, identify any gaps, and provide options tailored to your needs, so you know exactly where you stand if a slab leak ever occurs.
https://www.allstate.com/resources/home-insurance/slab-leaks
https://www.bankrate.com/insurance/homeowners-insurance/does-home-insurance-cover-plumbing/
https://www.investopedia.com/ask/answers/111815/does-homeowners-insurance-cover-broken-pipes.asp
No, most policies cover the resulting water and foundation damage from covered perils but not the actual cost of pipe repairs themselves.
Yes. Many insurers offer “service line coverage” as an endorsement, which can help pay for underground pipe repairs.
Act quickly—shut off your main water supply, call a licensed plumber, document any visible damage, and contact your insurance agent to file a claim.
Possibly. Water and foundation damage claim often result in higher premiums, so weigh the repair costs against your deductible before filing.
