Who should pay for damage from Portland water main break? You or the homeowner?

Northeast Portland flooding

An apparent water main break caused a flood in Northeast Portland on Saturday, March 16, 2019.

One homeowner whose basement was flooded over the weekend said he expected the damage to cost about $10,000 to $15,000. The basement was carpeted and had a couch, television, washing machine and dryer. His insurance turned his claim down.

Most homeowners insurance doesn’t cover flooding, and it’s uncommon for homeowners outside areas prone to flood to carry additional flood insurance. Now, those affected are waiting to see if the city of Portland will pay for the damage.

The city’s Risk Management division handles liability claims. Water Bureau spokeswoman Jaymee Cuti said it was unclear what caused the rupture, but likely it was a combination of old age and pressure due to freezing and thawing of the ground this winter.

Many of the water mains under Portland streets are old so this could happen to anyone.

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