Video

The answers to all your questions about water backup coverage

What is water backup insurance coverage?

A water backup and sump pump overflow endorsement on your homeowners or renters insurance provides added protection from costly water damage resulting from backed up drains or failed sump pumps.

What does water backup insurance cover?

Water backup insurance provides coverage for damage to your property caused by a clogged sewer line, failed sump pump and backed up drains. It also covers mold damage to your home caused by water or sewer backup.

What causes water backup?

Water backup damage most commonly occurs when a drain, sewer or gutter backs up, or a pump fails, forcing water into your home. This could stem from a heavy rain, debris causing a clog or even root invasion from your yard outside.

Does homeowners insurance cover water backup?

Homeowners insurance does not typically cover water backup damage. Water backup and sump pump overflow coverage is an optional coverage that must be added on to a homeowners policy.

How much does water backup coverage cost?

The average cost of water backup and sewer coverage may range from $50 to $250 per year, with limits of coverage from $5,000 to the full replacement cost of your home. Talk to your independent insurance agent to find the level of coverage that is right for you.

Do I need water backup coverage?

Whether it’s in pipes or under the ground, your property is surrounded by water. Water damage — resulting from backed up drains or failed pumps — is one of the most common homeowners insurance claims. Water damage is the third most costly claim behind fire and liability lawsuits, according to the Insurance Information Institute. Because water damage incidents like these are often not covered by a home policy, it’s important to make sure you are protected with a water backup endorsement. Talk to your independent insurance agent about what water backup endorsement limits suit your needs.


LC DEC 2018-55