NWT Overland Flood & Sewer Backup Insurance Explained
Overland flood and sewer backup are separate coverage questions. IBC advises that policyholders generally need the applicable optional coverage for those flood-related losses.
✓ Overland flood and sewer backup are not the same insurance coverage.
✓ Optional endorsements, limits and deductibles can differ by insurer and property.
✓ The source and path of water are important to a claim decision.
✓ Government disaster assistance should not be assumed to replace insurance.
Describe how water entered the home
Surface water entering through doors or foundations, sewer backup, plumbing escape and seepage may be treated differently. Avoid using the word flood as the only claim description; document the actual source and path.
Compare availability, not just price
Ask whether overland flood and sewer backup are included, optional, limited or unavailable for the address. Record separate limits, deductibles, waiting periods and exclusions.
Mitigate safely after the event
Follow public-safety instructions, stop further damage when safe, photograph affected areas and contact the insurer before discarding material unless health or safety requires immediate removal.