Got a flood and not an arc?
"ASK JOE" he will know "DUMB QUESTION" from Donald in Roseville:
Joe, I thought I had back up insurance, but when my basement flooded during this last rainstorm my insurance agent told me my back-up was not covered and the repairs would have to be out of pocket, now what?
Answer for Donald in Roseville:
Donald, Donald, Donald, I wish I had a dollar for every time I heard that question. I could put my kids through college with it! This problem has become an epidemic in our region.
I have many questions for you, but the first, "You need to have a long discussion with your insurance agent that sold you your homeowners policy." Why? Because you were likely asked if you wanted back-up coverage at the time of purchasing your coverage and you either denied the coverage and signed something approving that, or you just didn't understand it. Donald you are not alone and I'm suspect you will now have backup coverage added to your policy. Be advised, these types of policies are typically limited in coverage. They start at $2,500 for basic and go up from there to 5k, 10k and higher. Depending on what you have in your basement will dictate the dollar amount you will need. If your basement was finished and you spent 10k or 50k and you have contents as well, you will need to inform your agent of this and they will recommend the coverage limit for you. I am really sorry to hear about your loss in your basement.
However, you have a problem on your hands and it could be hazardous to your health if not handled properly. A sewer backup is considered a black water loss (another word for "Crappy Water") and loaded with bacteria. I am recommending that you read the question we answered about "cleaning with towels" where there is more information on what to do next. Ultimately, you will need to call us in for an inspection and let us see if you still have wet areas that need to be addressed before a mold problem occurs, so you don't get soaked again!
And remember at "Ask Joe" He will know, there is never a "DUMB" question, but always a "SMART" answer! - Joe