Understanding Sewer Water Backup Coverage

Imagine coming home to an unbearable smell only to find your basement flooded with water and, worse, raw sewage. This scenario is not just disgusting; it's a nightmare to clean up and can hit your finances hard. That's where sewer water backup coverage comes into play. It's a rider or endorsement you add to your homeowner's insurance policy designed to protect your home from the damages caused by sewage or sump pump backups.

What Does It Cover?

Sewer water backup coverage specifically addresses water damage to your home resulting from:

• Sewage backup coming from within your home's plumbing system.
• Water overflowing from a sump, sump pump, or related equipment.
• This coverage is crucial because standard homeowner’s insurance policies do not typically cover these kinds of damages.

What Will It Cost You?

The cost for this added protection is surprisingly affordable, with most coverage endorsements ranging from $50 to $100 annually. However, depending on the level of coverage you desire – say, if you have a large finished basement that would require more protection – the cost can be as low as $30 a year. Keep in mind, most water backup coverage riders come with a deductible, ranging from $250 to $1,000.

Why Is Sewer Water Backup Coverage Important?

Reports of sewer backups in homes are increasing, potentially costing homeowners between $2,000 and $10,000 in damages. This rise in incidents can be attributed to the aging infrastructure, with approximately 500,000 miles of sewer lines in the U.S. being around thirty years old. As these pipes age, the risk of experiencing a costly and unpleasant surprise increases.

Distinctions From Base and Flood Coverage

It's essential to distinguish sewer water backup coverage from the base coverage of your homeowner's policy and from flood coverage. While your base policy covers standard risks like fire or theft, it usually excludes sewer backup and flood damage. Similarly, flood coverage is a separate policy protecting your home from external flooding caused by weather events, not internal water backup issues. Sewer water backup coverage fills this specific gap, ensuring you're protected against a specific, prevalent risk.

How to Get Covered

Interested in adding sewer water backup coverage to your policy or checking if you already have it? Don't wait for a disaster to strike to find out. Getting covered is simple and affordable, and it can save you from significant financial and emotional distress.

At Mark Price Insurance, we're dedicated to being a resource for you and your family, guiding you through the ins and outs of homeownership with confidence and peace of mind. If you have questions or need further information, feel free to reach out. Protecting your home from unforeseen disasters is a small investment with big returns.