Cardinal Rule: Inspect Before You Claim

Why Inspections Matters:

It’s our firm belief that every homeowner should adhere to a cardinal rule: inspect before you claim. Especially when it comes to a sewer backup affecting your Twin Cities home. We understand the importance of highlighting the main ideas in this blog. So, let’s jump into why it’s crucial to have a reputable company inspect your home before initiating any insurance claims.

Completing an inspection during a sewer backup enables you to determine whether the issue warrants a claim at all. Making a claim can significantly impact your deductible, insurance plan, and claim history. We will highlight the importance of being selective when deciding to proceed with a claim. Additionally, we strive to provide education on different types of sewer backups, helping you understand which ones insurance policies often cover

The Two Types of Sewer Backups

Soft Blockage: This type of backup occurs when materials like grease, soap scum, hair, paper products, or sewage easily flush down drains, leading to a blockage in the sewer line. These materials can accumulate over time, gradually obstructing the flow of wastewater through the sewer line.

Main-Drain Backup: A hard backup, on the other hand, involves a more significant obstruction in the sewer line, typically caused by solid objects or debris that cannot easily break down or dissolve, such as tree roots, sediment buildup, or foreign objects like toys or toiletry items.

Insurance coverage for soft or main-drain backups can vary based on the insurance policy and the specific circumstances of the backup. Typically, coverage for damages resulting from sewer backups may encompass expenses related to cleanup, property repairs, and replacement of damaged belongings. It’s crucial for homeowners to carefully review their insurance policy and consult with their provider to understand any coverage limitations, deductibles, and exclusions.

Green Clean Sewer Backup Case study:

Upon arriving home from work, our client was confronted with the distressing realization that the main drain sewer had backed-up. Drywall, carpet, and even structural elements of their home had been contaminated and needed to be addressed immediately. When our client contacted their insurance company initially, they were informed that the sewer backup wouldn’t be covered due to the circumstances of its occurrence. Feeling understandably frustrated, our client reached out to us at Green Clean for assistance. We responded promptly, placing our client’s well-being at the forefront and offering emotional support every step of the way. Through our thorough inspection, we uncovered the true cause of the backup, which turned out to be covered within the client’s policy. With swift action, we were able to restore their property to a clean, dry, and healthy state as quickly as possible.

Four Key Take-Aways:

#1: Act Swiftly in Sewer Backups

In cases of a sewer backup, prompt action is vital. Contact a professional restoration service immediately to assess and mitigate the damage. Swift response will minimize the extent of the loss and quicken the recovery process.

#2: Capture Damage in Photos

Be sure to document the extent of the damage with photographs and videos. This visual evidence can expedite the claims process and help ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.

#3: Learn Preventive Measures

Learn preventive measures to reduce the risk of sewer backups to your Twin City home. These may include routine inspections, the installation of backwater valves, and proper disposal of grease and waste.

#4: Ensure Proper Coverage

Knowing you have the proper coverage in case of unforeseen events, you’ll feel empowered. Comprehensive knowledge and understanding of all available coverage options play a crucial role in this assurance. Real-life stories can serve as valuable guides for you, helping you make informed decisions and prevent the recurrence of mistakes.

When Sewer Backups Occurs, Green Clean is MN’s Most Trusted Damage and Cleaning Restoration Company

By implementing the cardinal rule: inspect before you claim, you’ll feel better about protecting your home during a sewer backup. Green Clean is ready to help your Minneapolis-St. Paul home against any unexpected sewer backups year round. At Green Clean, we’re dedicated to helping you stay prepared and protected.

We sincerely hope that your Minneapolis property will never experience a basement water-damage, or sewer backup in any way. However, if you do, Green Clean is ready to assist you immediately, in getting your life back to normal. Contact us today to learn more.