So, What is Usually Covered?
At Wessel Insurance Services, your local Erie Insurance agency, we understand the importance of safeguarding your home. Homeowners insurance is designed to protect you and your property from sudden, accidental, or unexpected damage. For instance, if a pipe bursts and damages your walls, floors, carpet, furniture, and electronics, your homeowners policy is likely to cover the damage.
Similarly, if your neighbor’s leak spills onto your property, their liability coverage would typically step in to repair the damage.
What Isn’t Covered?
However, not all plumbing issues are covered by your homeowners policy. Common exclusions include damage from normal wear and tear or lack of maintenance. For example, if a leak is not repaired promptly or improper maintenance leads to a bigger issue, your policy will not cover it. Negligence, such as leaving for vacation and turning off your heat, causing your pipes to freeze and burst, is also not covered.
Another significant exclusion is flooding and sewer backup, which many homeowners don’t realize until it’s too late. Flooding is the most destructive and costly natural disaster in the U.S., according to FEMA. If it can rain (or snow!), it can flood. Standard homeowners policies do not cover flooding or sewer and drain backups, often leaving homeowners with substantial out-of-pocket expenses after such events.
Anything I Can Do to Protect My Home?
Protecting your home from major plumbing problems starts with vigilance. Be aware of changes like a drop in water pressure or a running toilet. Annual pipe inspections can identify areas needing repair or replacement before they cause major issues. Be cautious about what you flush or dispose of, avoiding items that could damage your pipes.
Despite regular inspections and perfect maintenance, floods can occur rapidly and affect every state. To address this gap in coverage, we offer our Extended Water coverage. This includes protection from sewer and drain backups, inland flooding, tidal water, storm surges, mudflows, and mudslides. Extended Water covers your home, garage, other structures, and personal property, including items in your basement.
With Extended Water coverage, you gain peace of mind knowing your home is protected from:
- Basement and other room flooding during storms or flooding events
- Water backing up from sewers or drains
- Repair or replacement costs for your home, other structures, and personal property
- Additional living costs associated with temporarily relocating while your home is being restored
- Flood avoidance reimbursement (up to $10,000) to help proactively protect your home before flooding occurs
When it comes to plumbing issues, uncertainty about coverage can be daunting. While there are many preventative measures you can take, we’re here to reduce your worry. Reach out to Wessel Insurance Services, YOUR LOCAL ERIE INSURANCE AGENCY today to learn more and ensure you’re covered.
