Missing This Endorsement on Your Insurance Policy Could Cost You

2/17/2022 (Permalink)

SERVPRO of Greater Covington and Mandeville specializes in biohazard cleanup.

Water backup coverage, also referred to as sewer backup or sump pump failure coverage, is one of the most overlooked coverages in an insurance policy. Most insureds assume it’s a typical coverage buried somewhere within their lengthy declaration page. Unfortunately, it doesn’t exist in the average standard homeowners or renters insurance policy. Water backup coverage is a special endorsement that needs to be added to your policy to ensure coverage.

What causes water to back up into your property?

A drain, sewer, or gutter clog can cause water to back up into your property. Often the clog is caused by debris buildup or heavy rain. Water can also back up into a structure when a sump pump fails.

How much does water backup coverage cost?

A water damage event caused by a sewer system backing up or by a sump pump failure can cost thousands of dollars for mitigation and reconstruction. These types of water losses involve category 3 “black” water and require specialized protocols due to biological contaminants. Thankfully, water backup coverage is inexpensive, often costing as little as $50 per year.

Do you have water backup coverage?

When reviewing your insurance policy, special endorsements are usually found on the last few pages. You should ask your insurance agent to verify that you have water backup coverage. If you don’t have a water backup endorsement, then ask your agent to add it to your policy immediately.

How to prevent a water backup loss

• Regularly inspect drains and gutters. Remove debris
• Do not flush anything besides toilet paper down toilets
• Do not overuse garbage disposals or pour grease down drains
• Have a plumber inspect the plumbing system every year to find and address any issues promptly

What to do if you have a water backup loss 

When a water backup loss occurs at your home or business, you must act fast to mitigate damages. First, contact a local plumber to find the problem and stop the sources. Then, call our office to have a mitigation crew dispatched to your property. Our team is available 24/7/364 for emergency services.