In many instances, a homeowners insurance policy does not provide coverage for damage to water and sewer lines located on a homeowner’s property

The preservation of city infrastructure and services helps protect the community’s livability and was a key focus of the Guiding Principles adopted by the Battle Ground City Council in 2019. 

The city of Battle Ground routinely inspects, assesses, and maintains utility services lines to ensure the community’s service needs are met. But what happens when a service line failure occurs on the homeowner’s side of the utility connection?  In many instances, a homeowners insurance policy does not provide coverage for damage to water and sewer lines located on a homeowner’s property.    

In 2020, the city began researching options that homeowners could consider as a way to alleviate the potential financial strain associated with costly utility line repairs.  On April 3, the Battle Ground City Council reviewed and authorized a marketing agreement with Utility Service Partners (USP), doing business as Service Line Warranties of America (SLWA).  While the city does not endorse USP or its products, participation in the program promotes livability in the community, offering homeowners a measure of protection against unexpected costs associated with water and/or sewer line damage.

Recognized as a dedicated customer-focused company by the National League of Cities (NLC), USP offers an insurance program that homeowners may use to pay costs associated with the repair and replacement of water and sewer utility lines. The program, which began in 2003 and is endorsed by NLC, is available in hundreds of cities and municipalities in the United States and Canada, including 7 cities in Washington.

Participation in the utility service line warranty program by homeowners is completely voluntary.  Correspondence outlining the program and SLWA’s coverage options were recently mailed to homeowners.  Homeowners are encouraged to explore their current insurance coverage terms and decide for themselves if supplemental coverage is right for them.   

For more information on the city’s partnership with Utility Service Partners contact staff at exec.info@cityofbg.org.

Information provided by city of Battle Ground.