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Prepare for Winter Water Damage With Water Backup Coverage

With the outside temperatures fluctuating and the inevitable snow melt, you should be concerned about excess water in your basement or the lower level of your home.  

Water damage/freezing is one of the most common homeowners insurance losses.  So to keep your home safe, we recommend purchasing this optional water backup coverage (sump pump discharge/overflow and sewer backup) as part of your homeowners insurance policy, along with making sure your sump pump is functioning properly. 

Keep Your Sump Pump in Good Condition

Even if your policy includes water backup coverage – A sump pump is an important tool that can help protect your property by controlling water and keeping your home dry. It is important to check your sump pump at least once a year to make sure it is functioning properly this winter.  Pour water into the sump pit to test if the sump pump starts up automatically and quickly drains the water.  Make sure to check the following:

  • Is the sump pump plugged in?
  • Is the power cord in good shape?
  • Is the drain hose connected properly?
  • Is there any debris in the area that could clog the pump and prevent it from working properly?

Since sump pumps run on electricity, consider installing a battery or water pressure backup system to help ensure yours will not fail, even in the event of a power outage. If you have installed a battery or water pressure backup, during your test of the sump pump installation, unplug the main pump to ensure that your backup will function properly.

Make sure you have a professional on hand if your sump pump is not working properly.

Water Backup/Overflow Coverage

Did you know that homeowners policies don’t cover water that overflows from your sump pump or backs up through your sewer lines? You need to add this coverage via an endorsement in order to have this as part of your policy.  Unsure if your current homeowners policy contains water backup /overflow coverage?  Contact your Walsh Duffield agent today to review your plan. 

Tip: Be sure to also inquire if your furnace, hot water tank and washer/dryer are covered with this type of loss as not all companies include these items as covered property! 

Watch our Homeowners Insurance 101 video  to learn more about homeowners insurance coverage basics that can help keep your home, your belongings, and your family safe & well.

 

The above description provides a brief overview of the term and phrases used within the insurance industry. These definitions are not applicable in all states or for all insurance and financial products. This is not an insurance contract. Other terms, conditions and exclusions apply. Please read your official policy or full details about coverage. These definitions do not alter or modify the terms of any insurance contract. If there is any conflict between these definitions and the provisions of the applicable insurance policy, the terms of the policy control.