Uneven floors, sticking doors – these subtle signs could point to a major issue: foundation trouble. Foundation problems can creep up unexpectedly, leaving homeowners facing a costly dilemma. The good news? Homeowners insurance may come to the rescue – depending on the cause of the damage.
Let’s review the main causes of foundation problems, which repairs your insurance might cover, and what steps to take if you suspect trouble. By understanding your options, you can make informed decisions and keep your home on solid ground.
Understanding What Causes Foundation Damage
Foundation problems can happen for different reasons:
- Too much or too little moisture in your soil
- Natural disasters and weather damage
- Human activities like construction work
If you’re dealing with foundation issues, figuring out what’s causing them is key before you talk to your insurance provider. Sometimes it’s obvious what’s causing the damage, but other times you might need an expert’s opinion.
Once you know what caused the damage, you can figure out how extensive repairs will be and whether you can file a home insurance claim.
Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Foundation Repair?
The answer depends on the cause of the damage. Generally, homeowner’s insurance (specifically Coverage A which includes dwelling structure) covers repairs caused by sudden, accidental events. Here are some common covered causes:
Fire: If a fire damages your foundation, your insurance should cover repairs.
Weather Events: Damage from hail, windstorms, or tornadoes that impact your foundation is typically covered. (This coverage typically excludes flooding)
Falling Objects: A large tree branch or other object falling on your home and damaging the foundation would likely be covered.
Broken Pipes: If a burst pipe causes foundation issues, it may be covered depending on your policy.
Important Coverage Exclusions
However, coverage isn’t universal. Here are some common causes of foundation damage not covered by standard homeowner’s insurance:*
Settling and Gradual Cracking: Normal foundation settling and minor cracks are considered wear and tear and not covered.
Floods and Earthquakes: These require separate flood and earthquake insurance, respectively.
Neglect: If foundation problems arise due to poor maintenance or ignoring previous damage, repairs likely won’t be covered.
What to Do if You Have Foundation Issues
If you suspect foundation problems, don’t wait to take action!
Start by figuring out what’s causing the damage. A professional foundation inspection (like Pinnacle’s FREE consultation) can find the issue, whether it’s water problems in the soil, pressure from nearby trees, or even natural disasters depending on where you live. Knowing the cause is important, because it affects what your insurance will cover.
Once you have the diagnosis, read your homeowner’s insurance policy carefully. Look at the sections about foundation coverage and what’s not covered. This helps you see if your situation is included under your insurance policy. If you think it is, don’t wait to call your insurance company – being proactive is good in these situations. The insurance company will then send an adjuster to assess the situation and determine the next steps.
Alternatives if Insurance Doesn't Cover Repairs
Even if your insurance doesn’t cover repairs, you still have options:
Financing: Consider a home equity loan or line of credit to finance foundation repairs.
Contractor Payment Plans: Some contractors offer payment plans to make repairs more manageable.
Government Grants: In some cases, government grants may be available to assist with foundation repair costs.
Taking Action is Key - Contact Pinnacle Today!
Don’t let foundation worries stress you out. It’s important to deal with these issues quickly, whether your insurance covers them or not. Ignoring them can lead to big repair bills and even make your home unsafe.
At Pinnacle Foundation Repair, we offer FREE foundation inspections and consultations to figure out the problem and find solutions. Let our experts help you get your home back on track – reach out today to book your complimentary inspection!
