All About Buried Utility Lines Coverage

What is Buried Utility Lines Coverage? 

An optional endorsement on your Homeowners or Landlord policy that provides protection against the expense of costly excavation and repair of underground utility wiring and piping.

Does homeowners insurance already cover my Buried Utility Lines or Service Lines?

The standard homeowners insurance policy without this endorsement would not typically cover buried utility lines on the exterior of the residence that run from the house to the main connection in the street. 

What does the Buried Utility Lines or Service Line endorsement cover?

Many homeowners do not know that the repair or replacement of service lines on their property may be their responsibility—and that homeowner’s insurance policies typically do not cover damage to them. With Buried Utility Lines Coverage, the homeowner is covered when one of these lines leaks, breaks, tears, ruptures or collapses. Should a covered loss occur, coverage is available to pay for the damage to the utility line, excavation costs and expediting expenses to make repairs. This coverage typically does not include septic systems or on-site wells.

Types of piping that would be covered include:

• Water Piping
• Sewer Piping
• Cable Lines
• Power Lines
• Drain Piping
• Fiber Optics

Do I need Buried Utility Lines Coverage?

Coverage for buried lines or service lines was not available on a homeowner's policy until very recently. Most of our major carriers are now offering this as an optional endorsement and at a greatly reduced cost compared to the additional policies offered by your sewer or water company. 

How much does this coverage cost? 

Some Buried Utility Line or Service Line endorsements are only $30 for the entire year for up to $10,000 of coverage. Depending on your homeowner's policy carrier, other coverage limits may be  available. Compared to the cost of excavation and repair, this coverage endorsement is a great value.