In most cases, homeowners don’t notice a clogged or damaged sewer line until it causes significant — oftentimes foul-smelling — issues on their property. It’s never a good time to be faced with sewer line complications. Still, one concern that usually rises to the forefront of a homeowner’s worry is if their homeowners insurance will cover the repair costs.
Will it? Well, it depends. Let’s explore why:
Factors that Affect Your Homeowners Insurance Coverage for Sewer Line Repair
Several factors influence whether a specific damaged line’s repairs will be covered:
Your Insurer or Policy
Most homeowners insurance policies do not cover normal wear tear. So, if your sewer line is damaged as a result of a lack of maintenance, you most likely will not be covered.
Add-on coverage could help cover costs caused by the damaged line. If a tree root broke the line, which resulted in water damage to your home because of a sewage backup, an add-on policy could help with those costs. If your policy includes a sewer and drain coverage endorsement, you will likely get in-home damage covered as well.
Cause of Damage
While a lack of maintenance doesn’t grant you coverage, neither will earthquakes or earth movement — unless you have that specific bit of coverage. Events that might be covered include damage caused by faulty workmanship, an accident, or an act of vandalism.
Damaged vs. Clogged Lines
Some policies cover damaged sewer lines. If it’s just clogged, it’s likely excluded. Although, if there’s actual damage to the line, there’s a chance your policy covers it. It’s crucial to review your specific policy when determining if your insurance covers sewer line replacement.
Protecting Yourself Against Sewer Pipe Damage
Finding and fixing a problem early on can help save resources in the long run, as well as avoiding a break being listed as “wear and tear” that may be rejected — if you document repairs.
At Mister Sewer, our experts understand that accidents happen when it comes to aging and overburdened sewer lines. However, when they do, it’s essential to turn to the best to get expert repairs.
For more information regarding our sewer line repair or drain cleaning services, contact us today!