Does Your Insurance Cover Blocked Drains? Here’s How to Check

Blocked drains are a common issue that many homeowners face. While it may seem like a small inconvenience, a blocked drain can quickly turn into a major problem if left unaddressed. In addition to the inconvenience, it can also be expensive to fix. This raises the question – does your insurance cover blocked drains?

Understanding Your Insurance Coverage

The first step in determining whether your insurance covers blocked drains is to review your policy. Insurance policies can be complex, and it’s important to understand what is covered and what is not. Many policies cover damage caused by water, but not all policies cover damage caused by blocked drains. Some policies may specifically exclude coverage for blockages caused by tree roots, for example.

To make sure you are adequately covered, review your policy or speak with your insurance agent to understand what is covered and what is not. You may also want to consider purchasing additional coverage if you are not currently covered for blocked drains.

What to Do If Your Insurance Does Not Cover Blocked Drains

If your insurance policy does not cover blocked drains, there are still several steps you can take to prevent and address any issues that may arise.

Firstly, regular maintenance and cleaning of your drains can prevent blockages from occurring in the first place. This can include using drain guards or strainers in your sinks and shower to catch hair and debris, avoiding pouring grease or oil down your drains, and regularly flushing your drains with hot water and vinegar.

If you do experience a blocked drain, there are several DIY methods you can try before calling a professional plumber. These include using a plunger, drain snake, or chemical drain cleaner. However, it is important to use caution when using chemical drain cleaners, as they can be harmful to both your pipes and your health if not used correctly.

If DIY methods do not solve the issue, it is recommended to call a licensed and experienced plumber to address the blockage. While this may result in a cost, it is often more affordable than dealing with extensive damage from a severe blockage.

Additionally, some insurance policies may offer optional add-ons or endorsements for plumbing and pipe blockages. It is worth considering adding this coverage to your policy if you live in an area with a history of frequent drain issues.

Overall, it is important to be proactive in preventing and addressing blocked drains, even if your insurance policy does not provide coverage for this issue. Regular maintenance and prompt attention to any issues can save you from costly repairs and damages in the long run.

Preventing Blocked Drains

The best way to avoid the expense and inconvenience of a blocked drain is to take preventative measures. Here are some tips to help keep your drains flowing smoothly:

• Only flush appropriate materials down the toilet. This includes toilet paper and human waste. Avoid flushing materials such as wipes, feminine hygiene products, and cooking grease.
• Use a drain strainer in your sink and shower to catch hair and other materials that can clog your drains.
• Have your pipes inspected and cleaned regularly by a professional plumber. This can help to identify and address potential issues before they become major problems.

The Bottom Line

In summary, whether or not your insurance covers blocked drains depends on your policy. To make sure you are adequately covered, review your policy or speak with your insurance agent. If you are not covered, take preventative measures to avoid the expense and inconvenience of a blocked drain.

After conducting a web search, I was able to find this company does offer coverage for blocked drains.