Homeowners throughout Connecticut look forward to the spring thaw when the sun finally shines, and the snow starts to melt. However, the runoff from melting ice and snow can quickly overwhelm the municipal sewer system, forcing raw sewage to flow back into your home. Because the standard homeowners insurance policy doesn’t cover sewage backups, it’s important to review your policy and add any additional coverage you may need.

What Connecticut Homeowners Need to Know About Sewer Backups

What Causes Sewer Backups

Many towns and cities use combined pipelines to handle stormwater drainage and raw sewage. Heavy rainfall or melting snow can quickly dump more water into the system than it can handle, causing sewage to pour into household basements or low-lying storm drains. Clogged lines and tree roots can also cause sewer systems to back up, resulting in a mess and thousands of dollars in damage.

Does Your Homeowners Insurance Policy Cover Sewer Backups?

The standard homeowners insurance policy only covers very specific types of water damage, such as broken pipes or HVAC malfunctions. Flood waters and sewer backups are typically excluded. Fortunately, many insurers allow you to purchase backup coverage as an addition to your homeowners policy, and your personal property insurance may add an extra layer of protection as well. Before spring begins and melting snow starts draining into your local sewage system, meet with an agent to review your existing policy.

Your home is likely the most valuable asset you possess, so you need an agency with the experience and resources to ensure you have the protection you need. K.L. Smith Agency has been serving homeowners throughout the Willimantic, CT, area since 1956, offering a comprehensive range of policies with options to suit every budget. Visit their website for more on their homeowners insurance services, follow their Facebook for tips and advice, or call (860) 423-9294 now to request a free quote.