House insurance protects your home from many risks, but it does not cover everything. Knowing what your policy excludes can save you from financial surprises when you file a claim. Many homeowners discover these gaps only after damage occurs, leaving them to pay out of pocket for repairs they thought were covered.
Understanding these exclusions helps you make smarter decisions about your coverage. You can then add extra protection where needed or take steps to prevent uncovered damage before it happens.
At a glance:
- Standard homeowners insurance does not cover floods, earthquakes, pest damage, mold, or wear and tear.
- Flood damage from sewer backups, sump pump failures, or groundwater is excluded unless you buy separate flood insurance.
- Pests like termites, bedbugs, and rodents are not covered, nor is mold from excluded causes like flooding.
- War, nuclear hazards, government actions, and intentional damage are never covered by any insurer.
- You can add coverage through endorsements for specific risks like sewer backup, earthquake, or service line protection.
What does house insurance not cover?
House insurance in New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania excludes several common types of damage. These exclusions apply across all standard policies, though you may be able to add some protections through extra coverage.
Floods and water damage
Flood damage is not covered by standard homeowners insurance. This includes damage from sewer backups, sump pump failures, and groundwater seepage. If you live in a flood prone area, you need separate flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program. Many homeowners in these states face flooding risks during storms, making this coverage important to consider.
Earthquakes and earth movement
Your policy will not cover earthquakes, landslides, or sinkholes. These fall under earth movement exclusions that apply everywhere. While seismic risks are lower in New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania than in other regions, you can buy optional endorsements or special policies if you want this protection.
Pests and vermin
Damage from termites, bedbugs, rodents, and other pests is not covered. Insurers view pest control as a maintenance issue. The only exception is when pests cause a covered peril, like a fire or collapse from hidden termite damage. But if the infestation is visible, your claim will be denied.
Mold
Mold growth from excluded causes like floods is not covered. Since mold often results from water damage or poor maintenance, policies typically exclude it. Preventing mold through proper home maintenance is your responsibility.
Wear and tear
Normal aging, deferred maintenance, and gradual deterioration are never covered. Insurance protects against sudden accidents, not the natural breakdown of your home over time. You also will not get coverage for building code upgrades required after a loss, unless you add ordinance or law coverage.
Other absolute exclusions
All insurers exclude war, nuclear radiation, government seizures, and intentional damage or fraud. These are standard exclusions you cannot change.
How to fill the gaps
You can add endorsements to your policy for specific risks like flood, earthquake, sewer backup, service lines, or high value items. Coverage options vary by carrier, so review your policy carefully. Rising premiums and tighter restrictions in 2026 make it even more important to understand what you have.
How a public adjuster can help
When you face a claim denial tied to these exclusions, a public adjuster can review your policy and help you understand your rights. Public adjusters work for you, not the insurance company, and can navigate complex exclusions common during Northeast storms or winter damage. They ensure you get every dollar you deserve under your policy terms.
