Does Your Home Insurance Cover Utility Lines?

When it comes to protecting your home, homeowners insurance is designed to offer a safety net for a variety of situations, but what about the utility lines that keep your home running smoothly? From water pipes to electrical lines, utility lines are an essential part of your property’s infrastructure, yet they can be easily overlooked until something goes wrong. So, the big question is: does your home insurance cover utility lines?

Home Insurance: What’s Covered?

A typical home insurance policy typically covers damage to your home’s structure and belongings from risks like fire, theft or storm damage. However, when it comes to utility lines, the answer isn’t always straightforward.

In most cases, the utility lines that are part of the public infrastructure – like those running under the street – fall under the responsibility of your utility company or local government. However, the lines on your property, such as the ones that connect your home to public services like water, electricity, and gas, may not always be covered by your regular home insurance policy. 

Utility Line Coverage: What Is It?

Some insurance companies offer utility line coverage as an add-on. This type of coverage is also known as service line protection or endorsement and it’s designed to protect homeowners against unexpected expenses related to the repair or replacement of damaged utility lines on their property. 

Here are some of the utility lines typically covered by this type of endorsement:

• Water pipes (both supply and demand)
• Sewer lines
• Electricity cables
• Natural gas pipes
• Communication lines (like cable and internet)

This coverage generally includes damage caused by leak, break, tear, rust, corrosion, freezing, tree root intrusion, or even natural settling of the ground.

What’s Covered Under Utility Line Insurance?

If you choose to add utility line protection to your home insurance policy, you could be covered for:

• Repair or replacement costs: If a line breaks or malfunctions, your coverage would pay to repair or replace the damaged line. 
• Excavation costs: Digging up your property to access a broken line can be expensive. Utility line coverage usually includes excavation as part of the repair process. 
• Additional living expenses: If you have to move out temporarily while the repairs are being made, your policy might help with hotel stays, meals, or other related costs.
• Landscape restoration: Once the repair is complete, you may be reimbursed for fixing your lawn, driveway, or landscaping affected by the excavation. 

What’s Not Covered? 

It’s important to know what utility line coverage doesn’t include. Most policies will not cover:

• Damage to public utility lines before they reach your property
• Intentional damage or neglect, like failing to maintain your property’s lines
• Damage caused by natural disasters like floods or earthquakes, unless these are covered under a separate policy or endorsement

Is It Worth Adding Utility Line Coverage?

While utility line coverage isn’t required, it can be a smart addition to your home insurance policy, especially if you live in an older home where pipes and cables may be more prone to wear and tear. Repairing a damaged line can be costly, with some repairs ranging from $10,000 to $15,000 or more, depending on the severity and the type of line. This relatively inexpensive add-on can help save you from out-of-pocket costs down the road.

Final Thoughts

Home insurance policies are designed to give you peace of mind, but it’s always a good idea to review your coverage to make sure you’re protected where it matters most. Utility line coverage can be affordable way to shield yourself from unexpected and costly repairs to the critical systems that keep your home functioning. 

If  you’re unsure about whether your home insurance includes coverage for utility lines, or if you’re considering adding it, reach out to The Standard Insurance today. Our local brokers can guide you through your options and ensure your home is fully protected.