Does homeowners insurance cover damage to sidewalks or lawns caused by neighbor's ruptured water main?

Answer 1

The extent of coverage by your homeowners policy will be spelled out in the actual policy document. It's impossible to know what your personal homeowner's policy covers.

Find your policy and read it. Then call your insurance company and simply ask if the damage is covered. If they deny your claim and if you think they are wrong, appeal their decision. The policy will tell you what the appeal process is.

Consult with an attorney in your area. Interpreting complex policies is not always easy or straight-forward.

Even if you don't have coverage through your homeowner's policy, you do have a claim against your neighbor -- and hopefully his policy will cover the damage. In fact, this is your starting point.

One additional point to be aware of...

If the break actually occurred in the main as owned or controlled by a water distract, the county, city, &c. that supplies your neighbor, as opposed to your neighbor's Plumbing, your insurance may not be a factor, as most water damage from lines owned by the community must be addressed by the water utility. Check and make sure if you're really dealing with your neighbor's plumbing or a public main.