Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Septic Failure?

If you currently own a home in a rural area or own land in one, you are probably familiar with septic systems, and might own one. A septic tank is a water treatment system that captures and disposes water from toilets, showers, sinks, and other plumbing systems within the home. A homeowner is responsible for the maintenance of septic pipes and tanks on their property.  Any operating issues that inhibits the septic system from working properly, can be expensive. The cost of septic repairs motivates homeowners to contact their insurance agent to establish if all septic problems would be covered under their current home insurance policy. Unfortunately, most home insurance policies do not provide coverage for septic systems; unless the damage came from a different hazard covered by the policy. For example, a fire incident occurs in the home and the fire travels to the septic system, resulting in damage. Under those conditions the insurance company would cover the damage to the septic tank. Most home insurance policies do not provide coverage for pipes and tanks that are considered to be outside of the home.

 Technically, septic systems are not structurally part of the home, so they can be ruled out as features of the property in an insurance claim. Some insurance companies may have a rider/endorsement that can be added on for additional coverage. Additionally, companies might offer a separate plan for the septic system itself. It is also important to note that most home insurance policies do not provide coverage for regular septic wear and tear. The loss has to be something sudden and accidental for it to be covered. Let us assume a homeowner has a steel septic tank that has rusted over the years, and the tank begins to leak. Since rusting is a maintenance issue formed over time, the insurance company will not cover the repair and the owner will have to pay out of pocket. Before paying for any insurance plan, the customer should assess it to see if the policy gives the essential protection.

Can You Replace Your Own Drain Field?

How Do You Fix A Clogged Drain Field?