Jeffrey Johnson is a legal writer with a focus on personal injury. He has worked on personal injury and sovereign immunity litigation in addition to experience in family, estate, and criminal law. He earned a J.D. from the University of Baltimore and has worked in legal offices and non-profits in Maryland, Texas, and North Carolina. He has also earned an MFA in screenwriting from Chapman Univer...

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UPDATED: Oct 3, 2012

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Insurance Question from Bradenton, FL

Asked on 10/03/2012

Tree roots grew into the plumbing drainage system. Is the repair typically covered by homeowners insurance? Thank you

Answer given on October 25, 2012

Tree roots that grow into the plumbing system of a home is not covered by the homeowner insurance policy. This type of loss is considered a maintenance issue. The homeowner insurance policy is intended to protect you against a sudden and accidental loss, such as a fire, storm damage, vandalism to name a few. While back up of water is sometimes covered, it is for a sudden loss from the sewer system of the town, or an overflowing toilet or tub.If the tree roots caused damage to the interior of the home, or to your personal property, the homeowner insurance will cover that damage, less your deductible. If you have interior damage, get an estimate for that damage and if it is over your deductible, talk to your insurance agent. However, make sure the loss is great enough to warrant submitting a claim, since you may lose your claim free discount

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