Service line coverage is a specialized type of coverage in residential property insurance. It covers the cost of repairing or replacing utility lines, excavation, and landscape restoration in the event of a loss. This coverage is not usually offered in the base policy, so you have to pay to add the coverage.
If you choose to buy service line coverage, the following underground utility lines on your property are typically covered:
- Water pipes
- Steam pipes
- Sewer pipes
- Drain pipes
- Power lines
- Fiber optics
- Cable lines
- Internet lines
- Natural gas pipes
- Sprinkler pipes
Companies often offer service line coverage as a limited amount with a special deductible. For example, $10,000 or $25,000 of coverage, with a $500 deductible. Talk to your agent or company to learn about their service line coverage options.
Types of damage that are typically covered by service line coverage:
- Wear and tear
- Rust, corrosion, decay, and deterioration
- Mechanical breakdown
- Electrical breakdown
- Damage from trees or tree roots
- Vermin, insects, or rodent damage
- Freezing
- Weight of equipment, vehicles, animals, or people
- Collapse
Types of property that are NOT typically covered by service line coverage:
- Water well systems
- Heating and cooling systems
- Sprinkler systems
- Fuel tanks
- Piping or wiring that isn’t connected and ready for use
- Septic systems
- Wires or pipes that run under a body of water (ex. swimming pool)
- Wires or pipes that run through or under your home
*️⃣ To learn more about homeowners insurance, visit our The Basics, Shopping Guide, Claims Handling, and Know Your Rights sections of our website.