Protect Your Home: Why Sewer and Drain Backup Coverage Is a Must
When disasters strike, they often happen without warning. For instance, sewer and drain backups can catch homeowners off guard. Not only can they lead to expensive repairs, but they also create a stressful cleanup process. Fortunately, adding sewer and drain backup coverage to your homeowners’ policy can protect you from unexpected costs.
Why You Need Sewer and Drain Backup Coverage
Many homeowners believe, “This won’t happen to me.” However, statistics tell a different story. The Civil Engineering Research Foundation reports that sewer backups are increasing by 3% each year. This rise is primarily due to aging infrastructure and unpredictable weather patterns.
If you don’t have this coverage, you’ll likely face significant expenses. For example, cleaning up contaminated water can cost thousands. Additionally, replacing damaged furniture, flooring, or appliances adds to the burden. Even worse, untreated sewer water is a health hazard. Therefore, acting quickly is essential.
4 Risks Every Homeowner Faces
To understand why sewer and drain backup coverage is crucial, let’s explore four common scenarios where it makes a difference:
1. Sump Pump Failure
First and foremost, your sump pump is your main defense against water intrusion. Unfortunately, even the best systems can fail due to power outages or mechanical issues. As a result, water can flood your basement, causing severe damage. Without the proper coverage, you’ll pay out of pocket for all repairs.
2. City Sewer System Issues
Next, consider the city’s aging sewer system. Over time, pipes corrode or collapse, leading to backups of raw sewage into homes. Sadly, homeowners have no control over this infrastructure. For this reason, having the right insurance is vital.
3. Tree Root Damage
Similarly, mature trees can cause hidden problems. Tree roots naturally grow toward moisture, often invading sewer pipes. Once they infiltrate, blockages occur, leading to backups. Although regular maintenance helps, having insurance ensures complete protection.
4. Heavy Rainfall
Finally, excessive rain is a growing concern. Many city systems cannot handle heavy storms, causing storm drains to overflow. As a result, water can back up into homes through plumbing. This risk is especially high in areas prone to severe weather.
How to Protect Your Home
Although risks exist, there are steps you can take to minimize them. Here’s how:
- Get Sewer and Drain Backup Coverage: Most homeowners’ policies don’t include this protection. Contact ASZ International to add it today.
- Maintain Your Plumbing: Regular inspections can help identify small problems before they escalate.
- Keep a Backup Sump Pump: In the event of a failure, a backup sump pump can protect your home.
- Manage Tree Roots: Work with a professional to prevent root growth near sewer lines.
- Prepare for Heavy Rain: Install a water alarm in your basement. Also, store valuables off the ground to prevent damage.
Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late
At ASZ International, we believe that preparation is the key to peace of mind. By taking proactive steps, you can protect your home and avoid costly surprises.
Do you have questions? Contact us to learn more about sewer and drain backup coverage. Don’t wait for a disaster—act now to safeguard your home and family.