Blocked drains are generally not covered by Australian home insurance policies if caused by gradual wear and tear, poor maintenance, or foreign objects.
However, policies often cover resultant water damage to your home and belongings if the blockage is due to a sudden, accidental event like a burst pipe, storm damage, or tree root invasion.
- Resultant Water Damage Most policies cover damage to floors, walls, carpets, and personal items caused by water escaping due to a sudden blockage.
- Cause of Blockage Coverage may apply if the blockage is caused by an insured event, such as sudden pipe collapse, storm damage, or tree roots infiltrating pipes.
- Exclusions Costs for clearing the blockage itself, or damage from gradual issues like grease build-up, corrosion, or neglected maintenance, are typically excluded.
- Policy Review Always check your specific Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) as policy details and exclusions vary between insurers.
Updated July 2026
