It’s tough covering such a stinky subject, but it’s important to know as a homeowner how to deal with sewer backups. When this happens to you, time stops and all other responsibilities seem to drift to the side. It can ruin your belongings, structure, and even your day/week/month/year. We have some tips on how to prevent sewer backups, what to do in the event, and insurance coverage options.
Preventing Sewer Backups
The first step in avoiding a sewer backup is knowing what causes them. Here are a few things you will want to pay special attention to:
- Combined Pipelines: Most modern plumbing systems aren’t built like this anymore, but if your raw sewage pipe and storm drain are connected, you might have a problem during those heavy downpours. Know if this is the case for your property. If it is, look into solutions. Also consider installing a backwater prevention valve. This valve allows the sewage to go out, but not back in.
- Sanitary Main Blockages: Sometimes the blockage is inside the city’s major sewer system. Usually, this happens at a slower rate and there are indicators early on. If you see a back-up happening at a rapid rate, a major backup is probably the case. Report it to your city public works right away!
- Aging Sewer Systems: According to the American Society of Civil Engineers, our nation’s sewer lines are, on average, over 30 years old. If you suspect your lines are really old, you can get them replaced.
- Tree Roots: Trees and shrubs will make their way to sewer line joints and cracks in search of moisture. They can cause immense damage. Call a plumber to do a scope of the pipe. If they find tree roots, they can measure where it is in the yard. If it falls under the city’s property, sometimes the city will help cover the cost for replacement or repair.
- Improper Disposal: Some things just shouldn’t go down the drain. This includes “flushable” wipes (none of them actually are!), paper towels, and grease. None of these things break down easily and can wreak havoc on your plumbing. Make sure if you buy toilet paper it has a septic safe badge on it.
What to Do When Your Sewer Backs Up
When this happens, it can seem catastrophic. Foremost, stay calm and remember safety first. Get everyone out of the area if there is extreme flooding. This water will have contaminants that can make you and your loved ones sick. Shut off your water valve so that no further damage occurs. Call your electrician if the main circuit breaker, along with any other electrical items, is located in the basement.
Here are some tips on handling the mess:
- Avoid using water in the meantime. Do not flush toilets or run water until the problem is under control.
- Open the windows and doors! Get the entire area ventilated.
- Wear protective clothing. Cover your eyes, hands and feet from coming in direct contact with the sewage water. Remove anything that came in contact with it when you get back to the main floor of your house.
- Call the city sewer department or municipal authority. If you suspect this is backing up from the mainframe, let them know immediately. They might be experiencing a high volume of calls though, so be patient.
- Consider calling a restoration service. This is a dangerous DIY job. Your property is at risk of sneaky mold growth and you could be risking your health. If you do decide to tackle the clean-up, here is a comprehensive list of steps to take.
Insurance Coverage for Sewer Backups
If you have typical homeowners’ insurance and are wondering if sewage backup is covered, the short answer is probably not. Coverage of this kind is typically an endorsement to your plan that has limits and layers. The limit that your insurance agent advises means everything!
Typical layers and limits:
- Remediation and Cleanup
- Damage to Dwelling such as Flooring, Drywall, and Trim
- Replacement of Personal Property
Bottom Line for Sewage Backups
We hope this information has helped you mitigate the risks and dangers of sewage backups. Don’t forget to follow the preventative measures. If it happens, don’t be hard on yourself. It might not even be your fault. Assess the situation and do your best to keep you and your loved ones safe.
Are you thinking about adding sewer and drain backup to your homeowner’s insurance policy? The Greg Fay Insurance team can help! We can find you a coverage plan that fits your needs! Contact our team of independent insurance agents today!
