The short answer
Source determines everything. Pipe burst or appliance failure = standard HO-3 covers it. Sewer or drain backup = only if you have the water backup endorsement ($40–$150/yr). Rising water from outside (river, heavy rain overwhelming grade) = flood, only NFIP or private flood pays. Sump pump failure = separate endorsement.
Frequently asked
- Is my basement itself covered?
- Structure yes, but personal property in the basement is often sub-limited on the flood policy side.
Your policy is the only source of truth
Stop guessing. Check your actual policy.
Generic answers don't pay claims. PolicyPal reads your policy wording in seconds and tells you, in one sentence, whether you're covered.
