Will My Homeowner's Insurance Cover Tree Roots Damaging My Sewer Line?

January 3, 2020

Homeowner's Insurance Plans Vary Greatly, But Generally No.

First, it is important to understand that in New York State homeowner plans can differ widely. They are each unique. Rarely will you find one policy with the very same coverage sets as another.

Nonetheless, without a specific kind of endorsement (remain tuned), a standard homeowners insurance policy does not cover damages to a sewage system line created by infringement of tree roots.

Why? The answer though not obvious is pretty basic.

A sewer line does not fulfill the meaning of a Dwelling or Other Structures on a homeowner plan. See a fragment from a conventional homeowners policy below:

Nonetheless, a there is an endorsement that provides insurance coverage for a drain line. It is an option that can be included with some policies for an additional costs. It's called:

Service Line Coverage (Sometimes described as Underground/Sewer Service Line Coverage).

Among the insurance carriers that supply this coverage as the underwriting carrier is Munich RE/Hartford Steam Boiler. Excellent information on Service Line Coverage can be found on their website here: Service Line coverage for Homeowners.

If interested, give as a call and ask about Service/Utility Line protection. There are several companies who offer this coverage.

Would you like to discuss your Homeowner's Insurance coverage in greater detail? We’re here for you. Give us a call at 607-324-7500, or contact us via chat on our website: https://www.ryanagency.com

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Auto Rates and Finger Prints: Both are Unique to You!

By Jeff Ryan • April 7, 2026

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