Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Sewer or Drain Backup?

A flooded basement is stressful enough on its own, but discovering that your homeowners insurance may not cover the cause makes it worse. Sewer and drain backup is a commonly misunderstood gap in home insurance, and Georgia homeowners may often be caught off guard when they file a claim.

What Is Sewer or Drain Backup in Insurance Terms?

Sewer or drain backup refers to water or sewage that reverses direction and flows back into your home through toilets, floor drains or sinks. This typically happens when city sewer lines become overwhelmed, tree roots infiltrate pipes or a home’s drain system becomes clogged. It is different from a pipe burst or flooding, and insurance policies treat each situation separately.

Does Standard Homeowners Insurance Cover Sewer Backup?

Standard homeowners insurance typically does not cover sewer or drain backup. Most base policies exclude it by default. Coverage may be available as an endorsement, though policy details vary. If your home sits in a low-lying area, this coverage may be especially worth adding.

How to Prevent Sewer and Drain Backup in Your Home

Consider these tips to reduce your risk considerably:

• Have your sewer line inspected every couple of years, particularly in older homes.
• Avoid pouring grease or oil down your kitchen drain.
• Install a backwater prevention valve if your home is prone to backup.
• Keep tree roots away from underground pipes using root barriers and carefully planned landscaping.

Learn More

Gaps in coverage have a way of showing up at the worst possible time. Contact Absolute Insurance Agency LLC today to review your current homeowners insurance policy and find out if a sewer backup endorsement makes sense for your home.

This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.