Storm Causes Sewer Backup in Omaha, NE

10/6/2020 (Permalink)

This flooded bathroom was caused by the heavy rains from a storm.

A heavy rainstorm caused this sewer backup in Omaha, NE.  Our crews arrived onsite quickly, but black water damage such as this requires extensive cleaning and sanitizing, including removal of all porous materials in contact with the contaminated water. 

Did you know a standard homeowner's insurance policy excludes coverage for such an event?

The backup of sewer and drains as well as the failure of a sump pump is excluded.  Damage sustained from either of these problems may not be covered leaving you to pay for the cleanup.  If you have a finished basement, or use your basement area for storage, you shouldn't go without this coverage endorsement.

Heavy rains can trigger a backup.  A storm sewer backs up into your home and usually comes in through a sump well, washtubs in the basement, or toilets in the basement.  However, the damage can happen anywhere in the house.  Sump pump failures normally occur from power outages or motor failures.  Sump pumps run on electricity and during a bad storm many times the power goes out.  That's when you need the sump pump the most, to pump the heavy water from the rain out of the basement.

The damage can be quite costly.  Normally damage occurs in the basement, which houses the mechanical systems of the house such as: washer and dryer, furnace, hot water tank and the numerous items people store there.  Water or sewage usually destroys anything it comes in contact with.  For the thousands of dollars in damage, it would be well worth purchasing the additional coverage with your homeowner's policy to cover such an event.

Be sure to ask your agent about this coverage to make sure you already have it on your policy or to purchase it.  Also, ensure you have enough coverage.  The additional cost is small compared to the risk of loss and your peace of mind.  Ask your agent or company what your best option is.

If your home or business is affected by storm damage, call the trusted professionals at 402-291-3355.  The experienced crews of SERVPRO of Sarpy County are always here to help.