Tree roots can play havoc with septic systems.
In general, homeowners are responsible for sewer or septic lines within their property boundaries. In some communities, the homeowner can be responsible for the connection between his property and the city sewer line. Many homeowners insurance policies do not provide coverage related to septic problems. Others provide some coverage within limitations. Some homeowners purchase optional coverage against this peril.
Instances of Coverage
In some cases, septic problems may be covered. The first place to look is within the policy itself in the section where limitations and exclusions are listed. If septic problems are not excluded, they might be covered at least to some extent and under some circumstances. It usually depends on why the system failed. For example, if the septic system failed because of a fire where the house burned and the septic line was beneath the house, the septic pipe could be covered.
In another situation, a related claim might be honored. For example, a septic system gets clogged in a home that the homeowner has owned only for a short period. The sudden backup floods a basement area, destroying carpet and creating an unsanitary mess. The insurance offers to cover the cost of cleanup and replacement of the carpet. The homeowner pays to repair the damaged septic system line.
Instances of Non-coverage
Septic systems are like roofs or furnaces. They experience wear and tear, and they require maintenance. If the homeowner fails to maintain the septic system and it backs up, repair or replacement of the system is not likely to be covered. Septic seepage is not likely to be covered either. Seepage occurs over an extended period of time and is not sudden. For that reason, it is usually considered by insurance companies to be a maintenance problem for which the homeowner is responsible.
Special Endorsements
In some areas, a homeowner may be eligible to buy and add on a special endorsement to homeowners insurance that covers sewers and drains. Naturally, purchasing such an add-on to the policy is best done when purchasing the policy or renewing it instead of when there's an emergency septic backup, since the insurance would not be in effect and the claim would probably be denied.
Homeowner's Maintenance Responsibility
Prevention of septic problems helps eliminate the risk of damaging backups. Depending on the area, septic pump-outs at regular intervals may be recommended. Some homeowners whose properties have older trees have septic lines regularly treated to eliminate problems with roots. In some long-established communities, underground septic lines may be especially vulnerable to breakage and need to be replaced with materials that meet contemporary standards and codes.
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