A record-setting cold and rainy June in New Hampshire, and house hunting through homes old and new, has your blogger thinking about sump pumps.  These unsung heroes of the basement keep your mechanical systems and storage items above water, and your basement relatively dry.  But sump pumps are simply mechanical motors which can fail, and most run on electricity, which can also fail, often just when you need it most, during a heavy storm.

Options do exist for backing up your sump pump in case of power failure or mechanical failure: see this Washington Post article for more information on battery backup systems, some including a second pump, and even a water-powered sump pump option utilizing your domestic water pressure.

Another option to strongly consider, if your home is equipped with a sump pump, is an endorsement to your homeowners’ insurance covering loss due to sump pump failure, power interruption, or a pump overwhelmed by rising water.  Since most homeowners policies exclude damage from water which enters or overflows sump pumps, this roughly $40 endorsement could be well worth it.  Contact your local agent today to inquire about sump pump coverage.

The Davis & Towle Insurance Group serves our communities with local, independent agents dedicated to providing quality insurance products, service and advice you can trust.  We represent a carefully selected, stable group of insurance companies, enabling us to provide the best coverage at the most competitive price.  We handle a full line of both personal and commercial insurance needs.  With offices in Concord, Amherst, Franklin, Henniker, and Hillsboro, we offer stellar local service and advice and great rates.  Call us today at 800-652-5159.