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💧 The Seepage Exclusion: The Silent Killer in Your Home Insurance Policy
Most property owners assume their insurance policy covers water damage. Unfortunately, there is a silent—and dangerous—clause buried in many standard policies that can completely void a claim: the Seepage Exclusion.
This exclusion allows insurers to deny coverage for damage caused by a slow, gradual leak—such as a drip behind a wall or under a sink—that occurs over a “period of time.”
That phrase is intentionally vague.
Depending on the policy, “over a period of time” can mean anything from a few days to several months.
🎭 The Insurer’s Playbook
Insurance companies prefer to cover losses that are sudden and accidental, like a pipe bursting without warning.
But when they find evidence of:
- rot
- corrosion
- mold
- long-term moisture exposure
They will argue the damage was gradual, not sudden, and invoke the seepage exclusion to deny the claim.
🛑 The Problem
It is nearly impossible for a homeowner to defend against this.
Leaks hidden inside walls, ceilings, or cabinets are undetectable until significant damage has already occurred. By the time you discover the problem, the insurer may claim it existed too long to qualify for coverage.
This exclusion effectively shifts the financial burden of hidden damage onto the policyholder.
🛡️ IMMEDIATE ACTION REQUIRED: Review Your Policy Now
Do not wait until you find a leak to learn you’re exposed. You should review your policy today.
Here’s what to do:
- Locate the Language
Search your policy for terms like “seepage,” “leakage,” “gradual,” or “continuous.” - Confirm the Timeframe
Note any specific durations mentioned, such as “over 14 days” or “over a period of time.” - Talk to Your Broker
If the exclusion exists, ask about an endorsement—an added rider that modifies or removes the seepage and leakage exclusion. This is often your best protection.
A few minutes of proactive review today could save you tens of thousands of dollars when a hidden leak turns into an emergency.
