Does Florida Homeowners Insurance Cover Septic Issues?
Homeowners living in Lakeland know we are impacted by weather from both coasts, such as hurricanes and lightning-filled afternoon thunderstorms. As you know, these natural occurrences can damage a home, including a septic system. While you aren’t required to carry homeowners’ insurance in Florida (unless a bank enforces it on a mortgage), it is wise to do so. That brings us to the question: Does Florida homeowners’ insurance cover septic issues? There is no simple yes or no answer to that question. Let’s investigate further.
What Kind of Septic Repairs Does Homeowner’s Insurance Cover in Florida?
In Florida, there is an abundance of insurance companies that offer various plans to cover multiple types of septic damage. Keep in mind that while insurance companies in Florida commonly cover the below septic issues, you should check with yours to be sure:
- Lightning strikes your septic system.
- Fire damage to your septic system.
- Damage to your septic system caused by vandalism.
- Damage caused by vehicles and aircraft (not belonging to the homeowner).
- Flood damage to your septic system that was caused by hurricanes or thunderstorms.
- Electrical damage to your septic system.
- Explosions caused by things such as gas leaks.
As you can see, it makes sense that Florida homeowners’ insurance covers these issues; however, the next list is for people who lack common sense regarding their septic systems.
What Kind of Septic System Repairs Aren’t Covered by Florida Homeowners’ Insurance?
When it comes to septic damage that isn’t covered by Florida homeowner’s insurance, these are all preventable issues:
- Flushing un-flushable items into your septic system (paper towels, Kleenex, baby wipes, rags, and diapers).
- Damage from tree or shrubbery roots.
- Placing heavy vehicles or machinery over the septic tank or drain field.
- Failure to regularly have a septic system serviced.
- Poor drainage areas and downspouts emptying onto a septic tank or drain field.
- Flushing overly harsh chemicals into your septic system.
- An aging septic system that requires replacement.
Ways to Avoid Expensive Septic System Repairs in Central Florida
If you want to ensure that your septic system stays in good working order, it is imperative that you have it serviced on a routine basis. If it has been over three years since your septic tank was last pumped, you should have that done right away. If trees and shrubs grow near your septic system, you should have it inspected to ensure no roots have infiltrated it.
To Sum Up
If your septic system has been damaged and you want to find out if it is covered by your homeowner’s insurance, contact your agent or provider. Many policies in Florida will cover storm or fire damage, but the extent depends on the insurance company. Having your septic system pumped is a good way to prevent expensive repairs in the future and prepare your system for future storms.
Trust Lakeland Septic with Your Septic System
Lakeland Septic is a trusted member of the greater Lakeland community and is used by homeowners and businesses alike. Let us inspect and pump your septic system so that it works when you need it. If your septic system sustained damage from a storm or some other incident, we can have it functioning again in no time. Contact us today, and we will discuss how Lakeland Septic can assist you.
