Let’s start by facing the universal truth: There are just some things insurance companies don’t take pains to tell you, even if it’s written in your policy. The worst way to find out what’s not covered is to experience an unfortunate, uncovered catastrophe.
Don’t let a sewer backup in your home be just such a catastrophe. According to the Insurance Information Institute, most sewer backups are not covered by a standard home insurance policy. Your sump pump can’t handle the runoff after a major downpour? That’s not covered, either. If you didn’t purchase additional insurance to handle those issues, your basement flood just became your money drain.
There can be many causes of sewer backup. The aging sewer system in the United States is a big part of the problem. Combined pipelines — those that handle both storm runoff and sewage in the same system — can also lead to a home insurance nightmare. So can blockage of a sanitary drain, and water that seeps into your basement as a result of older, deteriorating walls.
How to avoid these problems? First, purchase additional coverage on your home insurance policy to cover sewer backup, the failure of sump pumps and other possible issues. Then set about making certain you never have to file a claim! Start with these tips:
- If you have problems with tree roots in the lines, replace your old pipe with new plastic pipe.
Consult a plumber to correct any illegal plumbing connections that could cause a problem with sewer backup or flooding. - Install a backwater protection valve to make certain that sewage flows out of the building but cannot flow back in. Have the work done by a qualified plumber to assure that you have the right valve and the proper installation.
- Dispose of grease, paper products, and the like in the proper manner. Never pour grease down the drain, and don’t flush paper products, other than toilet paper, which quickly disintegrates.
Insurance companies may not tell you all you need to know about protecting your home. So do your home insurance homework and choose the right coverage to keep your money from going down the drain!
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