What is sewer line protection?

Author: Dr. Will Wyman  |  Last update: Sunday, July 27, 2025

With the Sewer Line Protection Plan, you're covered Complete repair or replacement of your collapse Sewer Line, in accordance with your plan limits. Emergency support available 24/7 through our Safety Valve Repair Line. Guaranteed expert emergency repairs by a locally licensed and insured service contractor.

Is sewer line inspection necessary?

Sewer lines, the vital infrastructure for disposing of waste from your home to municipal or septic systems, can be aged, damaged, or clogged with tree roots. Considering a sewer line inspection is not just advisable; it's a crucial step that could save you thousands in unforeseen expenses.

Will homeowners insurance cover sewer line replacement?

Does homeowners insurance cover your sewer line if it's damaged? Damage to your sewer line may be covered by your policy if it is caused by perils such as hail or windstorms, explosions, lightning or fire, damages caused by vehicles, vandalism or falling objects.

Do I need sewer backup insurance?

Sewer backups can cause thousands of dollars in damage. Unfortunately, most homeowners are not covered under a standard homeowners insurance policy. To make sure you are adequately covered, you should seek a special sewer backup endorsement or, in some cases, a separate policy.

Does a sewer line belly need to be replaced?

A belly in the line cause heavier waste to potentially settle and the create a ``soft'' blockage in the line. If it is causing your line to siphon water through the toilet then it would be a good idea to replace the line. If it is bellied the whole way to the septic then do it.

What You Need to Know About Sewer Line Insurance

How much does it cost to repair a sewer line belly?

Once a video pipe inspection has confirmed a bellied sewer line, the most efficient solution will be deployed. Like most estimates we've delivered, a sewer line belly repair cost is very similar. An average sewer pipe repair cost hovers around $2,306, with the average range currently sitting at $1,300 and $2,700.

What is the life expectancy of a sewer line?

Generally speaking, you're going to find that most main sewer lines will only last somewhere between 50 and 100 years before you need to do a main sewer line replacement. You could very well have a broken sewer line on your hands right now and not even realize it.

How much does sewage insurance cost?

The average cost of water backup and sewer coverage is $50 to $250 annually, depending on your risk exposure and the limits you select.

How much does a sewer backup cost?

The Expenses Involved in Sewer Backup Cleanup

In total, wastewater cleanup and restoration falls between $2,000 to $10,000, depending on the severity of the spill. It may even cost up to $50,000 in some rare cases, especially if it involves serious plumbing issues.

How do I know if I have a sewer backup?

If you are using one appliance, like the washing machine, and hear a toilet gurgling or bubbling, you may have a main sewer pipe backup. Another sign is when you run the bathroom sink and water backs up into the shower. Even if you hear minor gurgling after flushing the toilet, you should know that something is wrong.

Is sewer line replacement tax deductible?

As a general rule, sewer line repairs are considered to be standard home maintenance expenses, which means you are not eligible for a tax break on your personal income tax returns.

How do I know if my sewer line is broken?

7 Warning Signs Your Sewer Line Needs to Be Replaced
  • There's a Spike in Your Water Bill. ...
  • You Hear Gurgling Coming from the Pipes. ...
  • The Water Is Slowly Draining. ...
  • Your Yard is Soggy. ...
  • The Smell of Sewage Lingers. ...
  • Pests Are Attracted to Your Yard. ...
  • The Toilet Bowl Water Level Is Up and Down.

Are local governments responsible for paying for sewer line repairs?

Sewer laterals are the underground pipes that connect your home wastewater to the main sewer line in the street. Homeowners are responsible for their sewer laterals, while problems with the public sewer main line are managed by the city or municipality.

How often should a sewer line be cleaned?

Expert Recommendations for Sewer Line Cleaning

We recommend homeowners schedule sewer line cleaning every 18 to 24 months to prevent buildup and clogs. Regular cleanings help avoid costly repairs and extend the life of your plumbing system.

Do plumbers check sewer lines?

Professional plumbers can use various camera styles to inspect the sewer line, such as: Remote-controlled crawler cameras. Pole or fixed zoom cameras. Push rod cameras.

How do I know if I need sewer service?

10 Warning Signs You Need Sewer Repair/Replacement
  • Unwelcome Visitors. ...
  • Higher than Normal Water Bill. ...
  • Noticeable Wet Spots on Landscape. ...
  • Foul Smelling Standing Water. ...
  • Various Plumbing Fixtures Clogged. ...
  • Unexplained Gurgling Noise Coming from Drain. ...
  • Varying Levels of Toilet Water. ...
  • Intrusion of Tree Roots.

Why is sewer line replacement so expensive?

Sewer work is expensive because of the labor-intensive process involved, which includes excavation, pipe removal, and installation of a new one. It requires significant manual labor and expertise, driving up the overall cost.

Who pays for sewage backup?

Every year, sewer backups cause damage to millions of households. Many homeowners may not know that they tend to be responsible for the maintenance and repair of the pipeline between their city's sewer main and their building, and if it gets damaged or clogged, it's financially their responsibility to remedy the issue.

How much does it cost to clean up sewage under a house?

First, consider the average costs associated with cleaning up after a sewage leak or backup. These averages range from $2,000 – $10,000 depending on the severity and size of the mess. There may also be additional charges related to repairs if damage has been done to your home or property as a result of the spillage.

Do homeowners insurance cover sewer lines?

In most cases, home insurance will cover sewer line damage from specific events. This includes extreme weather (excluding earthquakes and floods), vandalism, fire, and damage from vehicles or falling objects.

Why is sewer service so expensive?

It is an effective system, but an expensive one to operate. In addition to the treatment plant costs, a sewer system's infrastructure is more expensive to build, replace and maintain than that of a water system.

How much does a full sewage treatment plant cost?

Residential Sewage Treatment Plant Costs

Overall, the average cost of buying and installing a domestic sewage treatment plant is around £7,000-£13,000. In some circumstances, you may be able to claim against your insurance's accidental damage policy.

How do you tell if your sewer line needs to be replaced?

The Top 10 Most Common Signs of Broken Sewer Lines
  1. Sewer Smell. Usually, one of the first signs of a sewer line is a bad odor. ...
  2. Gurgling Toilet. ...
  3. Pests in Your Home. ...
  4. Slow Drains. ...
  5. Sewage Backup in Your Toilet or Tub. ...
  6. Mold or Mildew On Your Ceilings or Walls. ...
  7. Cracks in Your Walls. ...
  8. Unusually Green Patches on Your Lawn.

How often should a sewer be pumped?

Household septic tanks are typically pumped every three to five years. Alternative systems with electrical float switches, pumps, or mechanical components should be inspected more often, generally once a year. A service contract is important since alternative systems have mechanized parts.

Should I buy a house with cast iron pipes?

It all depends on the geographic location of the home and the pipes. While homes with cast iron pipes laid in clay soil tend to be more likely to have corrosion, homes built in sandy soil often have pipes that last longer. Cast iron is durable and strong.

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