Plumbing leaks may not grab headlines like tornadoes or fires, but they are one of the most common and, unfortunately, costly sources of property damage in Illinois. A burst pipe in a Chicago high-rise, a leaking water heater in a Springfield home, or a broken line in a Rockford commercial property can cause thousands of dollars in structural and personal property losses. Worse, insurers often resist paying for the full extent of these damages, leaving property owners frustrated and financially vulnerable. At Vargas Gonzalez Delombard, our Illinois plumbing leaks lawyers stand up for policyholders when insurers delay, deny, or underpay valid claims.
How Insurance Should Handle Plumbing Leak Claims
Property insurance is intended to cover water damage from sudden and accidental plumbing failures. A proper claim may include coverage for:
- Emergency mitigation, such as water extraction and drying;
- Repairs to plumbing systems and damaged building materials;
- Mold remediation when moisture lingers;
- Replacement of personal property or business assets; and
Additional living expenses or business interruption coverage if the property is uninhabitable.
However, insurance companies frequently complicate these claims. Carriers know that water damage can escalate into expensive repairs, and they often look for ways to minimize payouts. They may argue that the damage was caused by “wear and tear,” improper maintenance, or long-term seepage—issues often excluded under standard policies.
Even when mold results directly from a covered leak, insurers may deny remediation costs. Additionally, insurers may undervalue labor and material costs, leaving property owners unable to properly restore their property. The good news is that our Illinois plumbing leaks lawyers know these insurance company strategies and are prepared to challenge them.
