As winter fades and temperatures rise, homeowners face a new seasonal risk—melting snow. While the sight of snow disappearing is a welcome sign of spring, the water it leaves behind can cause serious damage to homes and properties. Many homeowners are caught off guard when they discover that flood damage from melting snow is NOT covered by standard homeowners insurance.
How Melting Snow Can Damage Your Home
Melting snow may seem harmless, but it can lead to costly repairs if not properly managed. Here are some common problems caused by melting snow:
- Basement Flooding: As snow melts, water seeps into the ground. If the soil becomes oversaturated, excess water can find its way into basements through foundation cracks or weak points.
- Roof Leaks & Ice Dams: Snow that melts and refreezes on your roof can create ice dams, preventing proper drainage. This can lead to leaks, water damage, and even mold growth inside your home.
- Foundation Cracks & Structural Damage: Excess moisture can weaken your home’s foundation over time, causing cracks or even structural shifting.
- Sump Pump Failures: Heavy snowmelt can overload your sump pump, leading to basement flooding if the system fails or cannot keep up with the volume of water.
Does Home Insurance Cover Flooding from Melting Snow?
The short answer: No. Homeowners insurance typically covers sudden and accidental water damage—such as a burst pipe—but it does not cover water damage caused by rising groundwater or surface water. If melting snow leads to flooding, your homeowners policy will not provide coverage.
To protect your home from flood damage, you need flood insurance.
What is Flood Insurance?
Flood insurance is a separate policy that covers damage caused by excess water from natural sources, including melting snow, heavy rain, and overflowing rivers. These policies are typically available through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or private insurers. We sell Flood Insurance through Auto owners Insurance and through a private flood program. Flood Insurance rates vary by which Flood Zone that you reside in. Typically, you can get more coverage and better pricing on the private flood insurance market.
Who Needs Flood Insurance?
- Homeowners in Flood-Prone Areas: If you live near rivers, lakes, or low-lying areas, flood insurance is highly recommended.
- Homes with Basements: Even if you are not in a high-risk flood zone, a sudden snowmelt can overwhelm your drainage system and flood your basement.
- Anyone Who Wants to Be Prepared: Flooding can happen anywhere, even in areas that are not designated flood zones. With the increasing frequency of severe weather events, it’s wise to consider additional protection.
Preventative Steps to Reduce the Risk of Snowmelt Damage
While flood insurance is the best way to protect against financial losses, homeowners can take steps to minimize risks:
✔ Keep gutters and downspouts clear to direct melting snow away from your home.
✔ Shovel snow away from your foundation to prevent excessive water buildup near your home’s base.
✔ Test your sump pump before snow starts to melt to ensure it’s functioning properly.
✔ Seal foundation cracks to prevent seepage.
✔ Consider installing a backflow valve to prevent sewer backups from heavy runoff.
Get Flood Insurance Before You Need It
Flood insurance policies typically have a 30-day waiting period before coverage begins. That means if you wait until the snow starts melting, it may be too late to protect your home this season.
If you’re unsure whether flood insurance is right for you, contact us today. We can help you review your coverage and ensure you have the protection you need before spring arrives.