sewer backup

Sewer Line Responsibility and Insurance Coverage

sewer main diagram

Homeowner Responsibility

The sewer service line is owned and maintained by homeowners, including the connection to the district’s main. All maintenance and repairs within the service line are the homeowner’s responsibility, even the portion of the pipe within the street.

Prevent Sewer Backups

  • Do not plant deep rooted trees over or immediately adjacent to sewer service pipes.
  • Do not flush any non-flushable items. Follow the Three Ps rule when it comes to what you can safely flush – only pee, poop and (toilet) paper.
  • Periodically have your sewer line inspected by a reputable company and clean the pipe when necessary.
  • Do no place valuable personal property close to a floor drain. Store personal items at least a few inches off the floor or place inside plastic tubs to protect them in the case of a backup.
  • Do not wash Fats, Oils or Grease (FOG) down the drain. Deposit these materials in the trash.

Check for Insurance Coverage

If a backup occurs within your sewer service line, a contractor/plumber must be contacted by the owner to restore sewer service. All damages are the homeowner’s responsibility. Many homeowner’s insurance policies contain an exclusion for sewer backup damages. Coverage is often available but must be requested as an addition to the policy. The district advises homeowners to discuss sewer backup coverage with their insurance agent.

Contact the District

If the backup was caused by blockage in a district owned sewer main, district staff will restore sewer service and work with the homeowner to clean and restore the affected areas. If you are experiencing a sewer back up, call the district at 303-979-2333. We can assist in determining if it is a district mainline or customer service line backup.

Learn more about sewer backup prevention, insurance coverage and cleaning up the mess at coveryourflush.com.