Is there any reasonable way to decide whether I should get water or sewage backup coverage?

Sue, Virginia

Dear Sue,

According to the Insurance Information Institute, water and sewage backup coverage is often bought as an amendment to your home insurance policy, although some insurance companies do offer it as part of their standard home insurance policies. The coverage is often recommended for people who live in densely populated cities, particularly those who live in basement or first-floor homes.

As with all coverage options, you'll need to evaluate your own risk for water backup problems, and weigh the costs and potential benefits to decide if this coverage is right for you. Talk to your neighbors to see if they've suffered any backup problems in recent years. Another option is to talk to city officials and check any public records on the subject.

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Disclaimer: We are journalists, not financial planners or insurance brokers. Nothing we say should be interpreted as a recommendation to buy or sell any insurance product, or to provide other financial or legal advice.