Service Line Coverage
Provides peace of mind for your water, gas, electric and sewer lines.
When it comes to the underground pipes and wires that connect your home to electricity, water, gas and sewage lines, out of sight shouldn’t mean out of mind. Did you know you are responsible for repairing or replacing damaged service lines on your property that connect with municipality lines?
Without Service Line Protection, you could be looking at hundreds, if not thousands, of dollars in out of pocket expenses for services that are critical for everyday life.
What is service line damage?
Service line damage typically occurs unexpectedly. To make matters worse, most homeowners insurance policies do not cover these repairs. Whether it’s a frozen water pipe that bursts or a collapse of the pipe that runs from your home to your septic tank, service line protection insurance provides peace of mind for your water, gas, electric and sewer lines.
With Mercury Insurance Service Line Coverage, you’re covered1 in the event of costly and unforeseen expenses related to water, electricity, gas and sewer service line damage.
1Coverages may be subject to certain restrictions and limitations and may not be available in all states. Please refer to your Policy for specific policy terms and conditions. Ask your local independent agent for more information. Service Line coverage is not applicable to mobile homeowner risks, condominium owner risks and contents only risks.
What types of service lines are covered?
Service line coverage offers up to $10,000 per occurrence for damage to your exterior underground service lines, including:
- Water piping that connects from the dwelling or other structure to a public water supply or private well
- Sewer piping that is part of a sewer lateral that connects from the dwelling or other structure to a public sewer or private septic system
- Ground loop piping that connects to a heat pump
- Piping providing heating, including geothermal, natural gas, propane and steam
- Piping that supplies compressed air
- Power lines that provide electrical service to the dwelling or other structure.
Service line coverage only costs a few dollars per month and covers lodging and other living expenses if your home becomes uninhabitable. This type of insurance has its own $500 deductible that is separate from the homeowner's policy. The average claim payment is $5,000 with excavation being the greatest cost associated with service line repair.
Speak to a local Mercury agent to learn more about service line coverage and how to add it to your insurance policy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of the deductible for Service Line Coverage?
This type of coverage has its own $500 deductible, separate from the homeowners policy.
What is the average claim payment for a sewer/water line claim?
The average claim payment is $5,000, with excavation being the greatest cost of a service line repair.
If a service water line was damaged due to a "service line failure" and the water caused damage within the home, would I be covered for both?
As long as you have both a homeowners policy and Service Line Protection, it may be handled as a joint loss. Service Line Protection would cover the excavation and repair of the service water line and damaged outdoor property. Your homeowners policy may cover the resultant water damage within the home, subject to any exclusions that may apply.
If a tree root grows around a utility line and causes a leak, would this be a covered loss?
Yes, a leak is physical damage and therefore meets the definition of a service line failure.
Should I find my own contractor if something needs repair or replacement?
You should hire and use your own contractor to make repairs to the covered service line. If you’re unable to locate a contractor, Mercury can help you find one.
What happens if there is a need for an emergency repair and there isn't time to submit the claim first?
If emergency repairs are needed, they should be documented as much as possible to assist the investigation to determine if coverage can be afforded. Photos can be very helpful, especially if the damaged parts have been discarded. You should always take action to prevent further damage and report the claim as soon as possible.