The #1 Threat To Your Basement

A blocked sewer pipe, heavy rains, gas buildup, and other factors can cause raw sewage or contaminated water to flood your home.

You may find out the hard way that $60,000 is the approximate cost of repairing a basement after it’s been flooded by a backed-up sewer or drain pipe. A backup that reaches the second floor plumbing can cost about $100,000 to clean up, remediate, and repair.

Standard Homeowner Polices Don't Cover This

That's a lot of money to pay out of pocket, because basic policies don't cover damage to the structure of your house or to any personal property that results from water/sewer back-ups or sump pump overflows.

The noxious fluids flooding your home can damage or destroy flooring, walls, shelving, appliances, and stored items.

Cleanup and decontamination can be a major effort requiring expensive professional remediation. Ineffective treatment of flooded areas can lead to mold under floors and behind walls  – something a standard homeowners policy doesn’t cover. In addition, you may have to also follow city ordinances for disposal of toxic materials, which usually involve addition expense. 

An Inexpensive Endorsement Solves the Issue

Homeowners should consider adding an inexpensive, stand-alone “Water Backup and Sump Discharge or Overflow” endorsement or a homeowners “package” policy that includes coverage for water and sewer backups and sump pump breakdowns.

Consider what it would cost to professionally clean, decontaminate, and dry the area and to replace or repair any damaged materials or possessions. Then select your coverage limits accordingly.

Call or Use Chat to Contact a Risk Coach

Whether you're a current customer looking for more information or someone looking for better homeowner insurance, use the chat feature on this page or call us for more information and a free quote. We welcome your call 800.342.5342, Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. ET.

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