Mitigate your Sewer Back-Up Loss Exposure

April 17, 2023||inPersonal Insurance|homeowners insurance, personal insurance, sewer back up

Sewer back-up loss exposures are a common coverage gap under a homeowners policy. However, this exposure can typically be covered by the addition of a Water Back-up and Sump Overflow endorsement (see sample) to your policy.

In addition to procuring the proper insurance coverage, homeowners should adopt several risk control techniques concerning this loss exposure, including the following.

Mitigate your Sewer Back-Up Loss Exposure
Click here to submit an inquiry to Murphy Insurance or call us at 800 222 8711

  • Do not put grease, paper towels, diapers, or other refuse down toilets or sinks. Avoiding this action will help prevent clogs in the pipes that connect your home to the sewer. Note that grease buildup in the lines is a common cause of water and sewage backup losses.
  • If a sump pump, French drain, or other flood control system is connected to the sewer main, hire a licensed plumber to remove that connection. A municipality’s plumbing code may not allow such a connection.
  • Insureds should consider getting a licensed plumber to install a backflow-prevention device. This valve allows sewage to go out but not to come back in. The investment of between $1,000 and $5,000 will go a long way toward protecting your home.
  • If there is a major sewer or drain backup into the home, a water loss remediation specialist should be hired to deal with the aftermath of this type of loss. The use of such an expert will help prevent disease and mitigate damage from mold and mildew.

Read Other Blog Posts

Family decorating tree

Decorate Safely During the Holidays

While holiday decorations can be fun and beautiful, they can also present fire hazards. To keep your home and family safe throughout this holiday season, consider the following decorating tips.
Read more
Thanksgiving Safety Tips

Thanksgiving Safety Tips for a Happy Holiday

Thanksgiving is a time to gather with loved ones, share a delicious meal, and reflect on all we’re grateful for.  To help you celebrate safely and ensure that your holiday is filled with joy, not unexpected mishaps. here are some tips to keep in mind.
Read more
Car tire

Vehicle Breakdown Safety Basics

No one ever plans to experience a vehicle breakdown. That’s why it’s important to plan ahead and be prepared in order to handle such a situation safely. Implement the following guidance to ensure you remain safe and injury-free in the event that you get stuck on the road.
Read more
Calculator

How Insurers Calculate Premiums

Depending on the type of policy, an insurance premium must be paid monthly, twice a year or annually. Each policy type will have also have a different premium amount based on the coverage and policyholder. It’s essential to understand how premiums are calculated so you can secure the best deal without sacrificing coverage.
Read more
Drowsy

Preventing Drowsy Driving

Every year, the National Sleep Foundation organizes Drowsy Driving Prevention Week to raise awareness about the dangers of driving while fatigued.
Read more
Smoke Detector

Daylight Saving Time Change: A Perfect Reminder to Check Your Smoke and CO Detectors

Daylight savings time is a perfect opportunity to keep your home safe by checking your smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) detectors. Time change days are memorable markers, making it easy to establish this habit without any extra reminders.
Read more
Flooding

Why Flood Insurance is Essential: Lessons from Hurricanes Helene and Milton

The devastating impacts of Hurricanes Helene and Milton have shown that flood risk isn’t limited to coastal areas. These storms have highlighted a crucial gap that individuals and businesses need to be aware of: flood damage is generally not included in typical home, condo, renters, or commercial property insurance, making a separate flood insurance policy essential for true protection.
Read more
Deer

Defensive Driving to Avoid Deer Collisions

With deer mating season in full swing from October through December, drivers face an increased risk of collisions. As deer are more active, especially around dawn and dusk, habitat loss has pushed them closer to roadways. Here’s how defensive driving can help you avoid an accident.
Read more
Driving Car

Factors Affecting Your Car Insurance Rate

The cost of auto insurance is influenced by a wide range of factors. Together, these variables shape the overall cost of auto insurance. With this in mind, it can be helpful to better understand how the following elements may impact your rates:
Read more

Visit Our Personal Insurance Page

Personal Insurance

Life is an ever-changing journey, and it deserves a thoughtful, comprehensive plan to protect the things and people that matter most. Our dedicated team at Murphy Insurance is here to assist you in creating that plan. With a wide range of product options at our disposal, we ensure that your plan is tailored precisely to your requirements. Our commitment to providing clear, intelligent guidance to help you achieve true peace of mind. Learn more about our personal insurance portfolio.