Lateral Sewer Line Collapsed? What You Should Do.
Are Lateral Sewer Line Collapses Covered By My Homeowners Insurance?
The most used answer given by insurance agents is: Maybe. We have seen the sewer lateral line covered by a homeowner’s policy, but is very rare. Two times in the last 35 years.
However, the bad news is it’s probably not covered. Most lateral line blockage is caused by items being accidentally washed down the drain, flushed down the toilet, trees roots, accumulation of grease and other various obstructions.
What is a Lateral Sewer Line?
A lateral sewer line is a crucial component of a property’s plumbing infrastructure, serving as the conduit that connects your home or building to the broader municipal or public sewer system. This vital pipeline is responsible for transporting wastewater generated within your residence, encompassing effluents from toilets, washing machines, showers, and other domestic sources, and channeling them into the larger public sewer system.
The lateral sewer line plays a pivotal role in maintaining sanitation and preventing the accumulation of wastewater within your property. As household water is used and flushed down drains, it traverses the lateral sewer, ultimately merging with the municipal sewer network. This network is designed to efficiently transport the combined wastewater to treatment facilities, ensuring proper disposal and environmental safety.
However, if the lateral sewer line experiences a collapse or obstruction, it can lead to a cascade of problems. A complete collapse of the lateral sewer line can impede the smooth flow of wastewater, causing backups within your property and potentially resulting in extensive damage. The financial implications of repairing or replacing a collapsed lateral sewer line can be significant, with costs ranging between $3,000 and $5,000, depending on factors such as the length and location of the sewer line.
Given its critical function, the health of the lateral sewer line is paramount for the overall well-being of your property. Regular maintenance and prompt identification of any issues are essential to prevent disruptions in the seamless flow of wastewater and to avoid the associated financial and logistical challenges that may arise from a collapsed lateral sewer line.
Signs that a Lateral Line is Blocked or Obstructed
- Water Pooling around the Basement Floor Drains: When there’s a blockage in the lateral sewer line, water from various household activities, such as using sinks, showers, or flushing toilets, may struggle to drain away. This can lead to water pooling around basement floor drains, indicating that the wastewater is not flowing properly through the sewer system. Homeowners should be vigilant about any unexplained water accumulation and investigate the cause promptly.
- Sewage Smell Inside or Outside Your House: An unmistakable sign of a potential issue with the lateral sewer line is the presence of a sewage odor. If you notice a persistent unpleasant smell inside your home or even outside near sewer access points, it could indicate a blockage preventing the proper flow of sewage. This smell is a clear signal that there may be a problem with the sewer system that needs immediate attention.
- Wet Ground in Your Yard: A blocked lateral sewer line can lead to wastewater seeping into the surrounding soil. If you observe consistently wet or soggy patches in your yard, especially in areas where the sewer line is located, it may suggest that sewage is not draining as it should. Identifying and addressing the issue early can prevent further damage to the sewer line and the surrounding landscape.
- Wastewater Leaking from Your Clean Outs: Clean outs are access points in the sewer line designed for maintenance and inspection. If you notice wastewater leaking from these clean outs, it indicates a problem with the lateral sewer line. Leakage may occur due to increased pressure within the system caused by a blockage. Homeowners should be attentive to any unusual discharges from clean outs and seek professional assistance promptly.
What To Do If Your Lateral Sewer Line Collapses
Understanding Policy Language
It’s essential for homeowners to carefully review their insurance policy language to grasp the specifics of coverage or exclusions related to lateral sewer line collapses. Encourage readers to contact their insurance provider for clarification on any ambiguous terms or conditions. Understanding the policy language can prevent misunderstandings and ensure homeowners are well-informed about their coverage.
Documenting and Reporting Issues
Emphasize the importance of promptly documenting and reporting any signs of lateral sewer line problems to the insurance company. Timely reporting can make a significant difference in the claims process and may help in demonstrating that the issue was not a result of negligence on the homeowner’s part.
Comparing Insurance Policies
Encourage homeowners to compare insurance policies from different providers to ensure they are getting the best coverage for their needs. This includes not only considering the presence of sewer line coverage but also examining the overall terms, conditions, and customer reviews of insurance providers.
Reviewing Coverage Annually
Remind homeowners to review their insurance coverage annually and update it if necessary. Changes in property value, renovations, or additional features may impact insurance needs. Regularly assessing and adjusting coverage ensures that homeowners are adequately protected against unforeseen events, including potential issues with lateral sewer lines.
Seeking Professional Advice
Suggest that homeowners consult with plumbing professionals or insurance experts to assess their specific situation. These professionals can provide insights into preventive measures, potential risks, and additional coverage options that may be available. Seeking expert advice can contribute to a proactive approach in managing sewer line-related risks.
Give me some good news already!
If your home is in St. Louis County or St. Louis City, and many of the surrounding municipalities, you already have lateral sewer line insurance and it’s already paid for. If you have questions, you can call your local area. You can also Google your municipality and search for sewer lateral line insurance.
- St. Louis County: 314-615-8427
- St. Louis City: 314-647-3111
- Chesterfield: 636-537-4762
- Kirkwood: 314-822-5800
- Florissant: 314-921-5700
