Homeowners know that when a water line bursts, a gas line leaks or lightning fries their home’s electrical system, it can be a nightmare to repair. 

While a homeowners insurance policy may provide some protection for service line failures on an insured’s property, such coverage is provided only for those causes of loss covered under the policy. 

Damage caused by weather, fire, lightning or even an earthquake, is covered under a properly endorsed homeowners policy. However, normal wear and tear, rust and corrosion is not covered. Nor is collapse from a vehicle running over a line or someone hitting and damaging a line when digging. 

When utility lines servicing a policyholder’s property are damaged on the property, the landowner is financially responsible for the repair. To avoid financial peril brought on by such a service line failure, it’s advisable to consider adding underground service line coverage to your homeowners policy. 

Service lines covered by this endorsement include: 

• Compressed air 
• Drainage 
• Electrical 
• Gas 
• Sewer 
• Telecommunications 
• Water 

Lines that run under a residence, under a body of water, or those that are not connected and ready for use are not covered.  

Covered losses include those caused by external force from: 

• Digging 
• Freezing 
• Mechanical breakdown  
• Rust and corrosion 
• Tree and root invasion  
• Vermin  
• Wear and tear 
• Weight stress 

Additional costs covered by this endorsement:  

• Excavation costs and the replacement of outdoor property, including driveways, walkways and greenery  
• Living costs or loss of rent caused by a failure 
• Temporary repair costs and costs for expediting permanent repairs 

Homeowners can choose from different coverage limit options. To learn more about the affordability of underground service line coverage, contact your Virginia Farm Bureau insurance agent.