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

People celebrating

Hosting Holiday Parties Responsibly: Tips for Personal & Business Gatherings

While it’s easy to get caught up in the fun, taking some simple precautions can prevent mishaps and protect you from unexpected situations. Here are some practical tips for hosting a safe and successful holiday party, with a focus on being prepared.
Read more
Holiday Decorations

10 Tips for Disaster-Free Holidays

From mishaps in the kitchen to accidents involving decorations, a little preparation can go a long way in ensuring your holidays stay merry and bright. Here are ten tips to help you enjoy a safe and disaster-free holiday season.
Read more
Map & Passport

Travel Smart: Holiday Safety Tips for Your Seasonal Adventures

Between the packed highways, bustling airports, and unpredictable weather, holiday travel comes with its fair share of challenges; here are some fun and practical tips for staying safe while traveling this holiday season.
Read more
Snowy Neighborhood

Protect Your Property This Winter: Tips to Prevent Costly Damage

From frozen pipes to roof collapses, the risks of winter property damage are real for both residential and commercial property owners. The good news? Many of these issues can be avoided with proactive steps that save you money and help keep your insurance premiums manageable.
Read more
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

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.