Sewage Backup: Are You Covered?
9/19/2021 (Permalink)
Most home insurance companies require homeowners to carry a rider policy if they hope for perils such as flood damage or fire damage to be covered. However, many companies offer an exception, and that is if the flooding or water damage is caused by a covered peril. In most instances, sewer backup is a covered peril.
What To Do When Your Toilet Backs Up
Not much is worse than dealing with a backed-up sewage line, yet, as a homeowner, you're bound to encounter a backup every once in a while. This is especially the case if you live in a flood plain, have large trees near your home or live in an older home with older plumbing. When your toilets back up and leave you with a disgusting mess, there are steps you can take to remedy the situation with as little pain and fanfare as possible.
• Remove spillage and wet vacuum the entire area.
• Disinfect all surfaces and mop up the floors.
• Disinfect plumbing fixtures and flush out the system.
• Remove and dispose of wet carpets and steam clean the ones that are salvageable.
• Perform a flood cut on damaged drywall.
• Clean up ductwork.
You should not attempt to clean up a sewer backup on your own. Ideally, you should call in the help of a professional Antioch, TN, water damage restoration team for safe and swift help.
How To File a Claim
There are certain steps you should take before beginning restoration efforts, during, and after a claim. Your documentation is key to making a full financial recovery. Take photos of the affected areas and the damage. Itemize property losses and take photos of damaged belongings as well. If necessary, have your cleanup crew contact your insurance company on your behalf to explain the damage in detail and what it will take to restore your home.
Dealing with a sewer backup can be a headache, but with the right team on your side, you can make it through the issue with as little pain and cost as possible. Contact your local restoration team today to get started.