Typical homeowners insurance offers cover for septic tanks, but only if they are damaged by a covered peril, such as theft or fire. If the damage is the result of one’s carelessness, the provider won’t reimburse you for repair or replacement. Generally, Home insurance plans compensate other structures at 10% of your dwelling restriction.
Moreover, whether you have $250,000 in dwelling coverage, you could have $25,000 in dwelling coverage for other structures. If your septic tank was damaged by a peril not covered by your policy, other structures coverage can reimburse you for repairs or even a complete replacement. Additionally, if the top of your tank gets destroyed in an accident, your insurance will usually cover the replacement.
Assessing the coverage you have may help clarify what conditions will apply if your septic system is damaged or destroyed. Furthermore, you should also be aware that requesting protection for other structures from your home insurer will most likely require it to meet your deductible.
How Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Septic Tanks Work
It’s possible to spend years in your house without understanding how your septic tanks function. A septic tank and a drain field make up the system. Additionally, waste moves through the pipes and into the tank each time it is flushed through your plumbing system. However, solid waste sinks to the bottom of the tank, while other materials, like grease, float along the top.
The liquid waste is moved by a septic tank through unique pipes that gradually force it into the drain field. Furthermore, to stop the waste from leaking out all at once and flooding your yard, the system might include chambers or other components. As long as everything functions as it should, you should not experience any issues.
When Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Septic Tanks
Though there are some restrictions, other structures, such as septic tanks, are covered by homeowners’ insurance policies just like other coverage in your home. Moreover, the sixteen hazards listed below are thought to be the most typical forms of unexpected damage:
- Lightning or fire
- Hailstorm or wind
- Damage due to aircraft
- Fire outbreak
- Civil disturbances or riots
- Smoke damage:
- Loss due to vehicles
- Theft
- Vandalism
- Falling objects.
- Volcano
- Snow, ice, or sleet-related damage
- Water damage by plumbing, heating, or air conditioning overflow.
- The water heater is cracking, tearing, and burning.
- Electrical current causes damage.
- Pipes freezing.
If any of these situations result in harm to your septic tank, you should be covered. However, the most common causes of septic tank damage do not fit into the categories listed above.
When Does Homeowners Insurance Not Cover Septic Tanks
Your septic tank and any connected pipes don’t offer coverage by homeowners’ insurance policy as damage must be deemed sudden to qualify for coverage. Furthermore, any of the following risks will not be covered by home insurance when it comes to septic tank damage:
- Harm resulting from excessive use
- Tremor
- Deluge
- Upkeep concerns
- Ignorance
- Pests, such as rodents or insects
- Water-related damage
- Deterioration
How Much Does it Cost to Cover Septic Tanks with Homeowners Insurance?
A portion of your overall policy limit will be your coverage for septic tanks. For instance, your policy limit might be approximately 10% of the total amount that is covered for your house. Assuming your house has a $350,000 insurance policy, your septic tank would be paid for up to $35,000.
Moreover, if the damages are the result of an accident, that should be sufficient to replace or repair a tank. However, it’s crucial to recognize that there may be situations under your policy where these additions are not covered. Furthermore, you should speak with your insurer if you have any questions concerning your plan or whether you should include any support.
How to Maintain Your Septic Tanks
Septic tank maintenance is your responsibility even though water backup and service line endorsements may help you avoid some of the expenses related to repairs. This implies that you should dispose of or refrain from flushing the following items down the drain:
- Oils
- Solid found in things like paper towels, coffee grounds, cigarette butts, and feminine hygiene products
- Fat/grease
- Paints/stains
- Domestic chemicals
Additionally, it’s important to ensure that no cars pass over the septic system or its drain field. Furthermore, look out for trees that could grow into the septic lines in the area, and make sure the tank is properly draining.
How to File a Claim for Septic Tanks
There are several steps involved in filing a claim for damage to your septic tank. Firstly, make a call to your insurer first. An adjuster from the company will visit your house to assess the damage and ascertain its cause. Additionally, your insurance provider determines whether your policy covers the system and how much you should receive after the adjuster reviews the case. Remember that receiving payment for your losses from the insurance company may take some time.
