Would your insurance policy pay for a sewer backup in your basement? Many homeowners do not find out until after a flood. Coverage varies widely between policies and insurers, so it is worth asking the right questions now.
We install backwater valves, sump pumps and other flood protection across Toronto, Peel and Halton. We are not insurers, but these are the questions our customers find most useful to ask.
Questions to ask your insurer
Does my policy cover sewer backup? Sewer backup coverage is often an optional addition to a home policy. Confirm whether you have it.
What is the limit? Some policies cap sewer backup coverage at a set amount. A finished basement can cost more than the limit to repair.
What is the deductible for water damage? Water claims sometimes have a separate or higher deductible.
Is overland flooding covered separately? Water that enters from the surface is often treated differently from water that comes up through the drains.
Do you offer better terms for flood protection devices? Some insurers offer discounts or better coverage for homes with a backwater valve and sump pump.
What documents do you need after a claim? Knowing this in advance makes a stressful day easier.
How flood protection helps
A backwater valve stops sewer water from coming back into your basement, and a sump pump with a battery backup keeps groundwater out even when the power fails. Together, they reduce the chance of a claim in the first place. Municipal rebates in Toronto, Peel and Halton help pay for them.
If you have already had a backup
Stop using water in the house, keep people and pets away from sewage and take photos before cleanup. Call your insurer as soon as it is safe, and call our 24/7 line if you need help stopping the backup.
Reach out to our team to talk about protecting your basement before the next storm.
