I’m sure you’ve asked yourself before; “What is Water Back up Coverage? Why do I need it?”
Everyone needs it, and here’s why.
What is Water Backup and Sewer coverage? Coverage that protects against damage to your home and/or personal property due to water that backs up/discharges or overflows through sump pumps, sewers, drains, or related equipment. Coverage typically includes (Depending on the company, and form) water removal, construction materials/labor and replacement costs for items and structures damaged from accidental overflow. Because water backups and overflows can create unsanitary conditions, it is important to handle these situations quickly and appropriately.
What would you do in the event of a sump pump failure, or a water back up event? Water back up is not included on a standard homeowners insurance policy, it is an optional coverage that must be added by endorsement.
This coverage is not just for homeowners. Water back up issues can effect anyone at anytime. (Renters, condo owners, Dwellings, etc) There are a lot of misconceptions about who is more or less likely to experience a water backup issue, and the truth is it doesn’t matter if you live on top of a hill, if you don’t have a basement, or if you’ve never had an issue before. Everyone has the potential to experience this type of loss.
How do we prevent water backups?
– Do not pour cooking oil or grease down your drains.
– Only flush bathroom tissue in your toilets.
– Consider replacing your line with plastic pipe to prevent tree roots from entering it.
– Consult a sump pump professional, typically a plumber, to check your sump pump regularly and look for any pre-existing drainage system issues.
– Install a backwater prevention valve to prevent sewer backups (Most new homes are built with this already installed)
– Buy a battery backup to keep your sump pump running when the power goes out or buy a water-powered backup sump pump.
The average cost to add this additional coverage to your policy for water backup and sewer coverage is inexpensive. Depending on the limit you choose the annual premium can range anywhere from $50-$250.
Please keep in mind this coverage does not protect against damage caused by a flood. Flood insurance would be a separate policy that we can also quote for you.
Whatever your needs may be, we are here to help you determine the best way to protect what is most important to you. Have any questions about coverage? Reach out to us today! We would love to help.
(Sources: https://www.grangeinsurance.com/tips/4-reasons-to-add-water-backup-coverage , & https://www.hippo.com/learn-center/water-backup-coverage )