I was shooting a wildlife documentary from a kayak. I tipped over. My backpack (not waterproof) went into the river. I fished it out in 10 seconds, but the gear was soaked. I dried it out, but the camera wouldn’t turn on. I filed a claim. The insurer asked: “Did you take reasonable precautions?”
Key Takeaways
- Negligence vs. Accident: Tipping a kayak is an accident. Taking non-waterproof gear onto water without a dry bag could be argued as negligence, but “All Risk” policies usually cover stupidity/accidents.
- Fresh Water vs. Salt Water: Fresh water damage is often repairable (corrosion is slower). Salt water is almost always a total loss. Be honest about the water type.
- Immediate Action: You have a “Duty to Mitigate.” If you leave the camera wet for 3 days before sending it for repair, the claim can be denied for “neglect.”
- The “Waterproof” Defense: If you were using a “weather-sealed” camera (like a Nikon Z9), the insurer might ask why it failed. Usually, seals aren’t rated for submersion, so the claim stands.
The “Why” (The Trap)
The trap is “Gradual Deterioration.”
If you dry it out and it works for a month, then dies from rust, the insurer will deny it as “Gradual Deterioration.”
You must file the claim immediately as “Water Immersion.”
Do not wait for it to die. The immersion is the damage. It needs professional cleaning immediately to be saved.
The Investigation (My Analysis of 3 Carriers)
I checked the “Waterborne” clauses.
Front Row Insurance
- The Verdict: They cover this. They know nature photographers work in risky environments.
- The Deductible: You pay the deductible. They pay the replacement.
PPA (PhotoCare)
- The Verdict: Covered. Accidental damage.
Homeowners
- The Risk: If you were shooting “wildlife” for a portfolio (business), they deny. If it was just for fun, they might cover it, but check for “Watercraft” exclusions (sometimes gear on a boat is treated differently).
[IMAGE: Photo of a camera lens with condensation inside the glass elements]
Comparison Table
| Scenario | Insurance Outcome | Recovery Chance |
| Fresh Water Dunk | Covered | 50% (if dried properly) |
| Salt Water Dunk | Covered | 0% (Total Loss) |
| Rain / Splash | Covered | High |
| Left in Damp Basement | Denied (Mold/Rust) | Low |
Step-by-Step Action Plan
- Remove Battery/Card: Instantly.
- Do Not Turn On: Sending current through wet circuits kills them.
- Get a Repair Estimate: Send it to the service center with a note: “Submerged in fresh water.” They will likely quote a full mainboard replacement or “BER” (Beyond Economic Repair).
- Submit the “BER” Letter: This is what gets you the check for a new camera.
FAQ
Does rice work?
NO. Silica gel works. Rice does nothing but add dust.
What if I dropped it in a pool?
Chlorine is corrosive. Treat it like salt water.
Is my kayak covered?
No. That’s a boat. Separate policy.