When your home’s foundation shows signs of wear and tear, it’s not just the structural integrity that’s at stake – your financial stability could also be on the line.

Foundation repairs are not only complex but can also be financially daunting.

In the face of such challenges, understanding the nuances of your insurance coverage becomes paramount.

What Foundation Repairs Can Be Covered by Your Insurance?

Insurance policies do not cover all kinds of damages to your foundation. In fact, the types of damages that are covered rarely happen.

Generally, repairs that are covered by insurance are classified in the “act of god” category. Usually, that kind of damage is caused by the following factors:

  • A vehicle crashes into your home
  • Fire outbreak in your house
  • Vandalism done to your home
  • Water damage caused by malfunction of your AC or plumbing system
  • Windstorms
  • Explosions

Ultimately, whether insurance covers foundation repair solutions depends on the cause of the damage and the type of coverage you have. It’s crucial to understand your policy’s terms and limitations and consult your insurance provider for detailed information regarding foundation repair coverage.

What Foundation Repairs Are Not Covered By Your Insurance?

Before you rely on your homeowner’s insurance for coverage, it is necessary to be aware of the kind of damage your insurance will not cover.

  • Earthquakes and Floods: These two natural disasters cause the biggest issues for your foundation. However, most insurance companies do not cover the damage caused by them without a separate and specific endorsement for earthquakes and/or flooding. If you live in an area prone to these events, you might want to look into these additional policies.
  • Normal Wear and Tear: Most insurance policies cover direct physical damage to your foundation but not repairs as a result of age. Foundation cracks and shiftings caused by temperature fluctuations or tree root growth over time would be considered maintenance and/or negligence. This means that your insurance company will most likely refuse to cover the costs of foundation repairs caused by such factors.
  • Faulty Construction: If your foundation company does not provide you with quality and stable construction of the foundation, you should expect that your insurance company will refuse to cover the costs for repairs. When buying a new home, it is absolutely necessary to get a home inspection to ensure that your foundation is in good condition.

How To Prevent Foundation Damage?

Preventing foundation damage is essential for maintaining the structural integrity of your home.

Here are several proactive measures you can take to minimize the risk of foundation problems:

  • Keep an Eye on Your Trees: Plant trees and large shrubs at a sufficient distance from your home. Tree roots can absorb moisture from the soil, causing it to shrink and leading to foundation settlement. Consult with a landscaping expert to ensure the right distance for planting.
  • Schedule Regular Foundation Maintenance: One of the best ways to know that your foundation is in good condition is to have regular foundation maintenance checkups provided by professional foundation companies.
  • Get Home Inspection Before Moving Into a New Home: It is crucial to get an inspection to access your foundation before you settle into a new home. Ensuring that you have a good foundation is crucial to avoid costly repairs.

Ensure a Reliable Foundation for Your Home

Don’t wait for a foundation problem to escalate. If you haven’t already, review your insurance policy carefully. Understand what is covered and what isn’t.

Reach out to your insurance provider for clarification if needed. And most importantly, consider adding specialized coverage if you live in an area prone to specific risks like earthquakes or floods.

At Crossroads Foundation Repair, we specialize in comprehensive foundation repair solutions. Our team of experts is dedicated to helping homeowners protect their investments.

If you suspect foundation problems or simply want a professional assessment, reach out to us today.