What Is Water Backup Coverage & Why You Might Need It

Homeownership comes with plenty of responsibilities—and surprises. One of the most unpleasant surprises? Water damage caused by a backup from your sewer, drain, or sump pump. Unfortunately, this type of damage isn’t always covered under a standard homeowners insurance policy. That’s where water backup coverage comes in.

What Is Water Backup Coverage?
Water backup coverage is an optional endorsement you can add to your homeowners insurance policy. It covers damage caused by:

• Backed-up sewers
• Clogged drains
• Overflowing sump pumps

This kind of damage can result in thousands of dollars in repairs, not just to the plumbing system but also to your floors, walls, furniture, and personal belongings.

Why It's Not Automatically Included
Most standard homeowners policies cover water damage only if it’s sudden and accidental, like a burst pipe. However, damage from sewer backups and sump pump failures is considered a maintenance issue, and typically excluded from basic coverage. That’s why adding this endorsement is so important—it fills a common gap in protection.

What Does Water Backup Insurance Cover?
Depending on your insurer and policy limits, water backup coverage can help pay for:

• Water removal and cleanup
• Repairs to damaged walls, floors, and electrical systems
• Replacement of damaged personal items
• Temporary lodging if your home becomes uninhabitable

It’s important to note: This coverage does NOT include flooding caused by rising water from outside (for that, you'd need separate flood insurance).

How Much Does It Cost?
Water backup coverage is typically affordable, especially compared to the cost of repairing water damage. Premiums usually range from $30 to $250 per year, depending on the amount of coverage you choose and your location.

Is It Worth It?
Here’s the thing: Water backups are more common than you might think, especially in older homes or areas with aging infrastructure. If you have a basement, use a sump pump, or live in an area prone to heavy rain, water backup coverage is a smart investment.
Even a small amount of water can cause big problems—mold, ruined floors, destroyed furniture—and the peace of mind this coverage brings is well worth the price.

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Water backup coverage is a small addition to your insurance policy that can save you from major headaches and expenses down the line. Talk to your insurance agent to see what options are available and make sure your policy is keeping up with the real risks homeowners face today.
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