A slow drain can quickly snowball into a flood that soaks floors, warps walls and wrecks furniture. Left unchecked, the repair costs can climb fast, making it a problem you can’t ignore.

The real question is who covers the expense. Many homeowners are unsure if their insurance will help and the reality is that the answer often sits in a grey area.



This guide explains how blocked drain insurance works in NSW. You’ll learn what’s usually covered, what’s often excluded and the steps to make a claim. By the end, you’ll know what to look for in your policy and how to prepare before contacting your insurer.

Can You Claim Blocked Drains on House Insurance?

In some cases, yes. But approval for a home insurance blocked drain claim depends on more than just calling your insurer. The outcome hinges on who you’re insured with, what your policy covers, the cause of the blockage, how well your pipes have been maintained and whether the issue sits inside your property or in the council’s zone.

Does Home Insurance Cover Blocked Drains?

The first rule is simple: check your policy. Every insurer has different wording and exclusions, so guessing the answer to can you claim blocked drains on house insurance could cost you time and money.



There are three main points to think about:

What’s written in your policy: Read the fine print, as coverage for drains isn’t always standard.

What you can negotiate:  Some insurers will adjust or upgrade your policy if you want better plumbing cover.

How well you’ve kept up maintenance: Skipping routine checks or ignoring early signs of blockage can void a claim.

What Blocked Drain Insurance Typically Covers

Home insurance blocked drain coverage in Australia can vary, but most policies share some common inclusions. These benefits can reduce repair costs and resolve your problems more quickly after an unexpected plumbing issue.

Accidental Damage

This applies when a blockage is caused by a sudden incident, such as tree roots breaking through a pipe or a collapsed section of drain. The event must be unforeseen and not the result of poor maintenance.

Connecting Drains

Some insurers include underground or connecting drains that link your property to the main sewer line. This coverage can save you from high excavation and repair costs if the problem lies between your home and the street.

Emergency Plumbing Callouts

Urgent blockages often require immediate action. Many policies will cover the cost of a plumber attending outside normal business hours.

Water Damage to Property Caused by the Blockage

If a blocked drain causes flooding that damages floors, walls or belongings, this is often included. It helps cover the cost of repairs and replacements caused by the overflow.

Internal Pipes within the Property Boundary

Coverage usually applies to pipes located inside your property lines. Anything beyond that point may fall under council responsibility.

Associated Repair Costs

Policies may include expenses for excavation or specialised equipment needed to fix the issue. This can save you a lot when fixing underground pipes.

Loss of Use Coverage

If severe drainage issues make your home unlivable, some insurers will cover temporary accommodation. This means you have a place to stay until repairs are finished.

Exclusions and Limitations of Blocked Drain Insurance

Policies may offer useful cover, but many exclusions still leave homeowners unprotected. Most insurers won’t cover:

Negligence

Insurers often reject claims if you ignored a known plumbing problem. You need to act quickly to make sure your insurance stays valid

DIY Solutions

If you try to repair the drain yourself, your insurance may not cover the damage. Always use a licensed plumber for blocked drains.

General Wear and Tear

Normal ageing of pipes is not considered an insurable event. Homeowners are expected to maintain and replace old systems.

Lack of Maintenance Records

Without proof of regular checks, your claim may fail. Keep receipts and reports from plumbers as evidence.

Unapproved Renovations

Insurance won’t cover plumbing installed without council or strata approval. Always follow legal processes before making changes.

Blockages Outside Property Boundaries

Pipes beyond your property line are usually the council’s responsibility. Your insurer will not pay for those repairs.

Pre-Existing Conditions

Problems that existed before your policy began are excluded. Full disclosure at sign-up prevents disputes later.

How to Use Your Home Insurance for a Blocked Drain

Claiming blocked drain insurance in NSW requires clear steps. Following the right process improves your chances of approval.

Document the Damage

Take photos or videos of the affected areas straight away. This evidence helps show the insurer the extent of the problem.

Stop Using Water Fixtures

Turn off taps, toilets, and other fixtures to prevent further damage. Continued use can make the issue worse and weaken your claim.

Call a Licensed Plumber for Assessment

A professional plumber can identify the cause of the blockage. Insurers often require a written report from the plumber.

Contact Your Insurer Promptly

Notify your insurer as soon as the problem is identified. Provide all photos, videos and the plumber’s report.

Submit a Claim Form

Fill out the official claim paperwork provided by your insurer. Attach all supporting documents to avoid delays.

Keep Receipts of Emergency Repairs

If you need urgent plumbing work, keep all receipts. Your insurer may reimburse these costs.

Follow Up

Stay in touch with your insurer until you receive a written update. Clear communication ensures your claim keeps moving forward.

Let Down to Earth Plumbing Help You With Your Blocked Drain!

Blocked drains are stressful enough without the hassle of sorting through insurance fine print. If you’re wondering if you can claim blocked drains on house insurance or just need urgent repairs, Down to Earth Plumbing Maintenance is here to help.

Our team quickly identifies and clears even the toughest blockages. We also provide detailed reports that insurers accept and offer ongoing maintenance to reduce the risk of future problems.

If you live in Lake Macquarie or Newcastle and need reliable plumbing support, contact us today. We’ll handle the mess so you can focus on getting your home back in order.