When you purchase a home, the sewer line that leads from the street to your residence becomes your responsibility. But that’s just part of the cost of homeownership — you can handle it, right?
It may come as a surprise when you find out the cost of replacing an entire sewer line. While price can vary widely depending on the location, the length of the pipe and any added charges involved with connecting it to the main line can cost $50 to $100 per foot. A burst 50-foot pipe can quickly turn into a $5,000 bill.
If you’re like many homeowners, you don’t have thousands available for a sewer line problem. This is where a warranty may begin to make sense. Is it worth the annual premium?
Your Homeowners Insurance Won’t Help
Sadly, your standard homeowners insurance policy won’t help with the costs when it comes to sewer line issues, not even if the sewer backs up into your home. Even flood insurance doesn’t cover sewer backups or the damage they cause to floors, walls and belongings.
With most homeowners insurance policies, it’s possible to purchase an add-on that covers sewer backups, but still, if you’re looking for specific coverage on the sewer line itself, homeowners insurance won’t provide the answer.
Considering a Warranty? Read the Fine Print
Should you pay an annual premium for a sewer line warranty? This seems like the right solution for many homeowners. With America’s aging infrastructure, sewer lines are reaching the end of their life spans. It often makes sense to pay for coverage now, before you have a problem.
A warranty can provide you with peace of mind. You know that whether it leaks, clogs or breaks, you’re off the hook for most of the costs associated with repair or replacement. Many programs take care of the repairs so you don’t even have to research a reputable contractor.
Still, it pays to dig a little deeper and look at the warranty’s fine print. Many exclusions can void your coverage claim and leave you confused and frustrated in the midst of a sewer line break.
For example, Service Line Warranties of America doesn’t cover damage to sewer lines caused by the homeowner, a third party, an act of God, a natural disaster or other “insurable causes.” That leaves a limited span of scenarios in which you can successfully claim coverage.
Also, the warranty won’t cover the septic system, and it won’t cover the inside of the home. Any other damages you’ll have to pay for on your own, or with the help of additional insurance.
Call a Pro
Want to find out more about sewer line warranties and the condition of your plumbing? Call Connectionz Plumbing, Heating and Air to schedule a sewer inspection. We will help you decide if a warranty is worth it.