Home insurance coverage protects your home and belongings in the event of theft, vandalism, natural disasters, etc. It also reimburses for the damage to the home’s foundation, but not all types of foundation repairs are covered. So, let us discuss when home insurance coverage will kick in to cover foundation damage.
Causes of Foundation Damage
The factors that can cause foundation damage are:
- Environmental factors, including temperature changes
- Water buildup
- Inferior construction
- Poor drainage
- Tree roots
Signs of Foundation Damage
If your foundation sustains damage, you may notice:
- Slanted floors
- Cracks in the basement and interior walls
- Doors that cannot be closed properly
- Moisture in the basement
When Will You Be Covered for Foundation Damage Under Home Insurance?
Your home insurance will cover foundation damage caused by covered perils, including:
- Explosions
- Damage caused by vehicles
- Lightning/fire
- Riots or civil disturbances
- Windstorm
- Aircraft-related damage
- Falling objects
- Volcanic eruption
- Damage from the weight of ice, snow, or sleet
- Water damage from air conditioning overflow, plumbing, or heating
- Vandalism
Your policy will not cover foundation repair caused by your negligence or perils that are not covered under home insurance, including:
- Earthquakes or floods
- Faulty construction
- Shrinking, bulging, cracking, or expansion of the foundation
- Pressure from tree roots
What Is a Foundation or Slab Leak?
A slab is the concrete foundation of the home, and it can leak if the concrete deteriorates or undergoes breaks and cracks. While slab leaks are not obvious, some signs can indicate them, such as:
- Wet spots along the exterior foundation
- Recognizing the sounds of running water
- Increased water bill
Will I Be Covered for Foundation Cracks or Settling?
No, you will not be covered for such damages. Your home insurance will only cover foundation repairs caused by named perils or events in your policy. It will not cover damages caused by natural deterioration or wear and tear, as these can be prevented with proper maintenance.
What Should I Do If I Am Not Covered by Home Insurance?
You cannot claim reimbursements for damages that are not covered by your policy. However, if the foundation damage is caused by a covered peril, you can get compensation. For example, if your foundation is slightly dislocated due to soil expansion caused by an internal flood that results in a burst pipe, you will be covered, as the home insurance policy covers internal floods.
However, you should prove the damage to get coverage. It is good to hire a foundation specialist or contractor to assess your foundation damage and its root cause. They can also help you collect materials or evidence to show that the damage is caused by a covered peril.
Tips to Prevent Foundation Damage
- Water the soil around your home early morning and evening for 30 minutes.
- Keep your downspouts, gutters, and perimeter drains clean to help water move away from your home.
- Check moisture levels to ensure the soil is not too dry or wet.
- Schedule regular inspections to identify issues before they cause extensive damage.
We Can Help Protect Your Home Against Foundation Repairs
At Action Insurance Group, we offer a customized that covers your home‘s foundation against your location and construction-specific risks, so you can get ultimate protection. Contact us today to get started.
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