Service Line Coverage
November 11, 2025
Service line coverage is designed to protect against sudden and accidental damage to underground utility lines — such as water, sewer, or power lines — that connect your home to the main public systems.
And here’s something many people don’t realize once those lines cross onto your property; they become your responsibility to maintain and repair if something goes wrong.
What Are Service Lines?
Service lines are the underground pipes and cables that deliver important utilities to your home, including:
- Water, sewer, and drainage pipes
- Natural gas lines
- Electric, telephone, internet, and cable wires
They quietly do their job every day…until something goes wrong.
Common Causes of Damage
Even though these lines are buried, they’re not immune to damage. Over time, they can fail due to:
- Tree root growth or shifting soil
- Freezing or corrosion
- Wear and tear from age
- Animal interference or rodent damage
- Heavy vehicles or construction equipment pressing on the ground above
When a service line breaks, repairs can quickly become expensive. You might need to dig up parts of your driveway, landscaping, or sidewalk just to reach the damaged line. Resulting in your being responsible for restoration costs.
How Service Line Coverage Helps
Service line coverage is an optional add-on to many homeowners insurance policies that helps pay for repairing or replacing damaged underground utility lines on your property.
In addition to covering the repair itself, this coverage often includes:
- Excavation costs to access the damaged line
- Landscaping restoration once repairs are complete
- Additional living expenses if you need to temporarily leave your home during repairs
Because these damages are often caused by things like wear and tear, root invasion, or corrosion – situations not typically covered by a standard homeowners policy – this coverage fills an important gap for you as the homeowner.
What’s Not Covered
Service line coverage generally applies only to underground utility lines that connect your home to a public service. It doesn’t cover things like septic systems, sump pumps, wells, or above-ground lines.
Your insurance agent can help you review what’s included and whether this coverage is available in your area.
Small Cost, Big Protection
The good news? Service line coverage is typically affordable, often between $20 and $50 per year, and can save you thousands in repair costs down the road. If your home is older, has mature trees, or you simply want added peace of mind, this coverage may be worth considering when talking to your Insurance Agent.
While what’s underground isn’t top of mind for most homeowners, it’s worth a closer look. Service line coverage helps protect what you can’t see, and keeps your home connected to the essential services that make everyday life possible. To learn more, reach out to your Robertson Ryan Insurance Agent today!
For more information, here is a link to The Importance of Service Lines Coverage from Zywave.
*Please note that we rely on independent sources and recommend conducting further research or seeking guidance from a qualified industry professional, legal counsel, or licensed insurance