Sewer backup is one of the most unpleasant losses a property owner can have and one of the most commonly uninsured. When a city main is overwhelmed in a heavy rain, or a building’s own drain line clogs or collapses, sewage can come up through toilets, showers and floor drains. Many Florida homeowners and building owners assume their policy covers it. Most standard policies do not, unless an endorsement has been added.
The Water Backup Exclusion
Homeowners, condo and commercial property policies exclude water that backs up or overflows from a sewer, drain or sump. The exclusion applies whether the cause is a blocked line on the property, a collapsed pipe or an overloaded municipal system. See our article on the water damage exclusions in a Florida policy.
The Water Backup Endorsement
Coverage can be added with a water backup endorsement. It is usually inexpensive and carries its own limit, often in the range of $5,000 to $25,000 on homeowners policies, with higher limits available on some commercial policies. Cleanup of sewage is costly, and flooring, drywall, cabinets and contents often have to be removed rather than dried, so a low limit can be used up quickly.
Backup Versus Flood
If water backs up because the area around the property is flooding, the loss may be treated as flood rather than backup. A flood insurance policy through the National Flood Insurance Program covers sewer backup only when it is caused directly by a flood. Backup from a clogged line on a dry day is not flood and needs the backup endorsement. Owners in low-lying areas often need both.
Older Drain Lines
Cast iron and clay drain lines in older homes and buildings crack, corrode and fill with roots, and are a common cause of backups. The policy will not pay to repair or replace the failed line. See our article on cast iron plumbing and insurance.
Condos and Apartment Buildings
In multi-unit buildings, a blocked main line can push sewage into ground-floor units. The association’s master policy, each unit owner’s policy and the backup endorsements on each determine who pays for what. Associations and landlords should confirm that backup coverage is on the building policy, and unit owners should add it to their condo insurance policy. See also our page on apartment building insurance.
Health and Mold
Sewage is a health hazard and requires professional cleanup. Wet materials that are not removed quickly will grow mold, and mold coverage is limited. See our article on mold and insurance in Florida.
Prevention
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Install backwater valves on lines prone to backup.
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Have older drain lines scoped and cleaned on a schedule.
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Keep grease, wipes and paper products out of drains.
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Confirm the backup endorsement and limit at every renewal.
For more on what a standard policy covers, see what home insurance covers for water damage. For coverage options, see our page on homeowners insurance in Florida.
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This article is general information and is not legal advice. Coverage depends on the terms of each policy.
