Everything You Need to Know About Slab Leak Insurance Coverage

Slab leaks are some of the most severe problems that can affect your home’s plumbing system.

While they may prove expensive to repair, slab leaks give homeowners an opportunity for savings in two ways: A) They can increase the value of a home (when appropriately fixed), and B) homeowners often discover their insurance policy covers them.

But, does homeowners insurance cover broken pipes under your slab?

If you’re a homeowner, it’s essential to be aware of both the causes and the effects of slab leaks so that you can take the necessary steps to protect your home – and your wallet.

What is a Slab Leak?

A slab leak is a type of plumbing issue that occurs in the “slab,” a concrete foundation that supports your home. Slab leaks can develop when water corrodes and rusts metal piping, such as copper or galvanized steel. Once these metals weaken, they may crack and begin to leak.

Although slab leaks are often caused by structural problems in the foundation of a home, they can also be caused by anything that weighs down or pushes against the concrete, such as landscaping.

How Slab Leaks Cause Damage?

According to records, an average household leak can waste up to 10,000 gallons of water in a year.

The effects of slab leaks can be severe and extensive. They often lead to costly damage to additional structures in the home, including walls and floors.

Not only this, but because water seeps into the ground, it can cause groundwater contamination and erosion of the soil near the home.

Another typical result is mold growth in wall cavities and beneath floor coverings. It can cause a severe health risk to your entire family and increase the cost of repairs.

Detecting Slab Leaks

Slab leaks usually begin as small cracks or holes in the concrete. The water can pool and produce a damp spot on the floor as the leak worsens. You may also notice a fall in water pressure, especially if the leak is near your home’s water meter.

How Can a Plumber Help?

If you suspect a slab leak, schedule an appointment with your local plumber to perform a slab leak detection.

Your plumber can use special tools and equipment to find and pinpoint leaks in your home’s plumbing system. If you’re unable to detect the spill yourself, the best thing you can do is contact a professional to come and take a look.

Several issues can cause slab leaks, and it’s best to leave the problem in the hands of a qualified plumber who knows how to identify and fix slab leaks (and their underlying causes). You may be able to avoid significant plumbing problems down the road by taking steps now to prevent slab leaks from occurring within your home.

The plumbers will detect the slab leak by using high-tech equipment, such as listening devices, cameras, and thermal imaging. They may also use a dye test to help locate the source of the leak.

How does Insurance Cover Slab Leaks?

Do you wonder does homeowners insurance cover broken pipes under your slab?

Many homeowners are unaware that their insurance policy may protect against slab leaks. Homeowners’ insurance typically covers the cost of repairing water damage resulting from a plumbing leak, including slab leaks.

It’s important to note that the coverage may vary from policy to policy, so be sure to review your specific terms and conditions. In certain cases, the insurance company may require that you have a licensed plumber assess the damage before they will cover the costs of repairs.