Farmers & Mechanics Offers Service Line Homeowners Coverage

Farmers & Mechanics Insurance in West Virginia is now offering a new Service Line coverage, which pays to repair underground outdoor water, sewer and electrical service lines that fail because of perils that would not be covered under most homeowners policies.

“Homeowners are responsible for repairs to underground water, sewer and power lines located on their property. Many homeowners don’t know that,” said Stacey Matteson, vice president of underwriting. “They only find out after a leak or break is discovered and then they must pay for repairs that can total $3,500 or more. Our coverage is specifically designed to cover damaged, underground pipes and wiring from causes that would not be covered by most homeowner policies.”

Farmers & Mechanics Insurance Companies adding the Service Line coverage to its homeowner policies and will pay up to $10,000 per service line failure, once deductible is met. The coverage is provided as part of the policy package for all HO 1, HO 2, HO 3 and HO 5 Policies as a value added coverage.

A service line is defined as underground piping and wiring that is located at the residence premises and provides service to the dwelling or other structure. The coverage is triggered by evidence of physical damage, such as a break, tear, rupture or collapse caused by ordinary use, freezing, root invasion, electrical arcing, or accidents such as a contractor digging.

The coverage can pay for hotels, meals, rent, or other living expenses when a family must leave their residence because of a covered service line failure, or for generators and other temporary equipment needed to remain in their home. Damage to outside property, including trees, shrubs, sidewalks, driveways, decks and landscaping are covered by a Farmers & Mechanics policy when caused by a service line failure.

Source: Farmers & Mechanics Insurance Cos.

Topics Agribusiness Homeowners