Ohioans advised to check insurance for sewer backup coverage

COLUMBUS — Recent heavy rains have caused an overburden on some local sewer system, which have led to sewer backups that have damaged Ohioans homes.

Mary Jo Judson, director of the Ohio Department of Insurance, today urged Ohioans to contact their homeowners insurance agent if their homes have been damaged by a sewer backup to begin the claims process and is reminding Ohioans to review their insurance policies to determine if they are adequately covered.

“Backed up sewers can damage flooring, furniture and electrical equipment. Replacing all of that as well as cleaning up from the damage can cost thousands of dollars,” Hudson said. “Ohioans should check with their agents to see if they have that additional coverage in the event they are impacted by a backed up sewer.”

Sewer backups or the inability of sump pumps to handle runoff water from major downpour are not covered by a typical homeowners insurance policy nor are they covered by flood insurance. Those types of coverages must be purchased as a separate product or endorsement.