Homeowners insurance is designed to protect you from unexpected damages, but one area often misunderstood or overlooked is Water & Sewer Backup Coverage. In Minnesota and across the U.S., water backup is one of the most common — and costly — home insurance claims.
So, what exactly does this coverage protect you from?
What Is Water & Sewer Backup Coverage?
Water & Sewer Backup Coverage is an optional endorsement (or add-on) to your home insurance policy. It provides protection if water or sewage backs up into your home through:
- Floor drains
- Toilets
- Sinks
- Bathtubs
- Sump pump failures or overflows
Without this endorsement, the damage caused by water or sewage backing up into your home is typically not covered under a standard homeowners policy.
Common Causes of Water Backup
Water backup incidents can happen to anyone — even if your plumbing is in great shape. Here are some common causes:
- Heavy rainfall or melting snow overwhelming city sewer systems
- Tree roots invading sewer lines
- Sump pump failure during a storm
- Blockages in your home’s plumbing or main sewer line
What Does It Cover?
This coverage typically pays for:
- Cleanup costs for water or sewage in your home
- Repair or replacement of damaged flooring, drywall, and personal property
- Disinfection and drying services to prevent mold
It does not cover flood-related damage (rising water from outside). That requires a separate flood insurance policy.
How Much Coverage Do I Need?
Most insurance companies offer several levels of water backup protection, ranging from $5,000 to $50,000 or more. The right amount depends on:
- The size and layout of your home
- Whether you have a finished basement
A quick conversation with your insurance agent can help determine what level is appropriate for your home. I would recommend a minimum of $25,000 coverage. Mitigation costs are very expensive.
Is It Worth Adding?
Yes — especially if your home has a basement or you’re in an area with aging infrastructure. Cleanup from a backup can cost thousands, sometimes tens of thousands of dollars, and it’s often not something you can safely DIY.
The cost to add this coverage is usually somewhat minimal, compared to the risk of paying out-of-pocket for a major cleanup.
💡 Final Thoughts
Water & Sewer Backup Coverage is one of the most important home insurance endorsements you can add to your home insurance policy. It’s affordable, valuable, and provides peace of mind that you’ll be protected if the unexpected happens.
Not sure if you have this coverage? Let’s review your policy together and make sure you’re covered.
Contact Ameriguard Insurance today — we’ll walk you through your options and help you choose the protection that’s right for your home.