Sewer Backup & Sump Overflow: Storm Claims Q&A

September 13, 2023||inPersonal Insurance|homeowners insurance, personal insurance, sewer back up

Heavy storm rains and other situations can cause sewage back-ups. Also, if water tends to leak into your basement when it’s very rainy, you may have a sump pit with a pump to move the water out. But what if the pump motor fails or the power goes out?

When these problems occur, they can cause a mini-disaster.

Q. Is water damage caused by a sewer back-up or failed sump pump covered by my homeowner policy?

A. No. These events are specifically excluded in a standard homeowner policy, yet many homeowners mistakenly assume that these situations are covered.

Sewer Backup & Sump Overflow: Storm Claims Q&A
Click here to submit an inquiry to Murphy Insurance or call us at 800 222 8711

Q. Can I purchase coverage for a sewer backup or sump pump failure?

A. Yes. You can purchase limited coverage as part of a package endorsement that increases several coverages on your policy or as a separate Water Back-up and Sump Discharge or Overflow Endorsement (click to view sample) to your policy. The coverage is usually limited to $2,500 or $5,000, which keeps the cost low and gives some assistance that can help when needed. Generally, the average cost is about $100, and in some cases, you can purchase more coverage.

Considering that your furnace, hot water tank, washer and dryer, and many other household items are in your basement, it’s worth purchasing the maximum coverage available. We recommend this coverage to our customers; however, not everyone purchases protection.

If you aren’t 100% sure you have this coverage and want to have it in place, review your policy or Contact Us at Murhpy Insurance.

Read Other Blog Posts

Wood-burning Stove

Wood-burning Stove Safety

The top source of fires in American homes comes from fuel-burning appliances—such as a wood-burning stove. Consider the following guidance to ensure safe operation of your stove—keeping you, your family and your home protected against the risk of a fire.
Read more
Outside lightbulbs

How to Reduce Winter Utility Bills

When outside temperatures begin to drop, one of the most costly consequences is the increased energy it takes to maintain a comfortable home temperature. With this in mind, consider these tips to reduce your monthly utility bills in the winter.
Read more
Car in snow

Tips for Driving in Extreme Weather

Driving in adverse weather conditions can be downright nerve-wracking. It can also be very dangerous. Being aware of how to modify your driving during heavy rain, snow and fog can help you stay calm and safe during your journey. Consider the following tips when driving in extreme weather.
Read more
Ice Dams A Winter Challenge for Homeowners

Ice Dams: A Winter Challenge for Homeowners

Read our blog post, Ice Dams: A Winter Challenge for Homeowners for some great tips on preventing ice dams and what to do in the case of ice dams on your roof. Ice dams are more than just an inconvenience—they can cause significant damage to your home. While prevention is the best strategy, ice dams can still form despite your efforts, so having a response plan is crucial. Ice dams occur when attic air warms to above freezing, causing snow on the roof to melt. As the water runs down the roof and reaches the colder edges, it refreezes, creating an ice dam. These dams block water from draining off the roof, causing it to pool and seep under shingles, into the attic, or along exterior walls.
Read more
Driving car

Does My Insurance Cover Pothole Damage?

Although potholes may be unavoidable, vehicular damage doesn’t have to be. Consider the following guidelines for avoiding pothole-related damage.
Read more
Frozen Pipes

How to Help Prevent Frozen Pipes

Frozen pipes can be an unnoticed danger, often going undetected until the weather begins to thaw. Here are some tips on how avoid frozen pipes and what to do if a pipe freezes.
Read more
Fireworks

New Year, New You: Top 10 Personal Insurance Tips

As the new year kicks off, it’s a great time to check in on your personal insurance. Life changes quickly and making sure your coverage keeps up can save you stress down the road. Here are 10 helpful tips to help you feel confident and protected this year.
Read more
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

Visit Our Homeowners Insurance Page

Homeowners Insurance

At Murphy Insurance, we take great care in assessing your options for homeowners insurance to ensure that you receive the most favorable value. Our dedication to serving you entails collaborating with highly-rated insurance providers and conducting comprehensive assessments of available choices. Our goal is to achieve the ideal equilibrium between affordability and coverage that suits your unique needs. Please let us provide you with a customized homeowners insurance quote.