Does Homeowner’s Insurance Cover Foundation Repair?
The importance of homeowner’s insurance in safeguarding your property is clear, but its applicability to foundation damage remains a topic of debate. Many homeowners are uncertain about the extent of protection their policies provide, particularly regarding foundation issues.
This clarifies insurance coverage for foundation repair and provides advice for situations where such damage may not be covered.
Is Foundation Repair Covered by Homeowner’s Insurance?
The answer is not always clear-cut. The short answer is: it depends.
Consider these factors that typically influence foundation repair coverage:
Generally Covered
- Natural disasters
- Uncontrollable events
- Fire damage
- Explosion-related damage
- Extreme weather incidents (tornadoes)
Generally Not Covered
- Substandard construction
- Normal settling
- Inadequate upkeep
- Damage from pests
- Issues stemming from soil conditions or root systems
Other factors, such as age, type of foundation, and location, can also impact coverage. While not comprehensive, this list underscores the importance of regular foundation inspection and maintenance to minimize potential damage.
Working with Your Insurance Company
It’s also crucial to thoroughly review your policy and consult with your insurance representative to understand your coverage regarding foundation damage. Don’t hesitate to seek clarification on any ambiguous terms or conditions.
Depending on your policy, you may need additional coverage, such as endorsements or riders, for damage from earthquakes and floods. Talk to your insurance agent to learn exactly what is covered and how to handle foundation-related insurance claims.
Options When Insurance Doesn’t Cover Foundation Damage
If your insurance policy doesn’t cover your home’s foundation damage, you still have several courses of action:
- Obtain a Cost Estimate: Begin by determining the repair costs. Seek a reputable foundation repair specialist, such as your local Groundworks company, for a free assessment and quote. This will provide a clear picture of your financial needs.
- Explore Grant Opportunities: Research potential grants for home repairs in your area. Availability may depend on your location and specific circumstances.
- Investigate Financing Options: If you lack immediate funds and don’t qualify for grants, discuss potential financing plans with your chosen foundation repair professional.
- Negotiate with Your Insurance Provider: You might be able to demonstrate that the damage resulted from a covered event. For instance, if your policy includes water damage but not foundation damage, you could argue that water caused the foundation issues.
While dealing with uncovered foundation damage can be challenging, remember that solutions exist. With diligence and effort, you can address the problem and restore your home’s integrity.
3 Causes of Foundation Damage
Now that you understand your foundation repair will most likely not be covered by homeowner’s insurance, it’s even more critical to ensure you know what causes foundation damage.
Let’s explore the common foundation damage causes:
1. Poor Drainage
Heavy, consistent rain and snowmelt during wet seasons mean you need an effective drainage system.
Ensure your basement waterproofing system or crawl space encapsulation measures are well functioning and your gutters are maintained and clear of debris.
Keeping water from pooling around your foundation goes a long way toward protecting your home.
2. Shifting Soils
Hundreds of soil types exist across the country. The most problematic is soil rich in clay. Clay is an expansive soil that shrinks drastically when conditions are dry and expands rapidly when water is introduced.
This motion means your soil and your home’s foundation regularly move, leading to cracks and damage.
3. Tree Roots
Trees with invasive root systems located too close to your home are detrimental for multiple reasons. As tree roots grow in search of nutrients, they shift the soil under and around the foundation and suck the moisture from the ground. This leads to soil and foundation movement and insufficient support for your home.
Foundation Repair from Foundation Experts
Whether your foundation repair is covered by insurance or not, it’s important to have the work done by a reputable company. Look for a company with years of experience and a trusted track record of repair. Read online reviews and check with your local Better Business Bureau.
Groundworks has been solving homeowners’ foundation problems for many years, but don’t take our word for it. Read thousands of online reviews on our website and browse our solution pages for an idea of what our inspectors may suggest.
Ready to book an appointment? Schedule a free inspection today!
Foundation Repair FAQs
Understanding if your home has a foundation problem is the first step to repair. Here are some of the most common problem signs to look out for:
- Cracks in the walls, floors, or ceilings: These may appear diagonal, horizontal, or vertical.
- Doors or windows that stick or don’t close properly: This may indicate that the foundation has shifted.
- Uneven or sloping floors: This can be a sign that the foundation has settled.
- Gaps around doors or windows: This can be a sign that the foundation has shifted.
- Cracks in the foundation itself: If you can see cracks in the foundation, it’s a clear sign of a problem.
Major foundation repairs should be entrusted to professionals, given their experience, equipment, and knowledge of safety protocols. Unless it’s a minor issue, relying on experts ensures the job is done effectively. While cost may be a consideration, hiring a foundation professional is a wise investment that can save money in the long run.
Indeed, we fully support our work with extensive, transferable warranties covering our basement and foundation repair offerings. This commitment ensures homeowners can feel confident that their investment is safeguarded.
