If you’ve just discovered that your home has foundation issues, you may be wondering if your homeowners insurance will cover the repairs. The short answer is that it depends on the cause of the damage. In this article, we’ll take a look at some common causes of foundation damage and whether or not they are typically covered by homeowners insurance.
What is a foundation?
A foundation is the load-bearing portion of a building, typically below ground level. The word can also refer to the lowest course of masonry, or base, supporting a wall.
The types of foundations
There are four main types of foundations: slab, pier and beam, crawl space, and basement. Each type of foundation has its own set of pros and cons, so it’s important to know which one is right for your home before you start building.
Slab foundations are the most common type of foundation in the southern United States. They are made by pouring concrete into a mold on site. Slab foundations are easy to build and maintain, but they can be susceptible to cracking in areas with high water tables or expansive soils.
Pier and beam foundations are common in the northern United States. They are made by setting wooden or concrete piers into the ground and then attaching beams to them. Pier and beam foundations are more expensive to build than slab foundations, but they offer better drainage and are less likely to settle or crack over time.
Crawl space foundations are common in homes with basements. They are made by excavating a hole for the foundation and then constructing walls around it. Crawl space foundations provide good drainage and ventilation, but they can be difficult to access if there are problems with the foundation later on.
What causes foundation damage?
There are many factors that can cause foundation damage, from natural causes like floods and earthquakes, to man-made causes like poor construction or excavating too close to the foundation. In most cases, insurance will cover damage caused by natural disasters, but they may not cover damage caused by human error. Check with your insurance company to see what is and is not covered.
How much does it cost to repair a foundation?
Foundation repair can be expensive, but the good news is that it may be covered by your insurance. Check with your insurer to see if they cover foundation repair and what the terms of coverage are.
Does insurance cover foundation damage?
Most insurance policies will cover damage to your foundation if it is caused by something beyond your control, like severe weather or an earthquake. However, if the damage is due to something that could have been avoided, like poor maintenance or a design flaw, you may be out of luck.
How can I prevent foundation damage?
There are a few ways you can help prevent foundation damage:
-Make sure your gutters are clean and in good condition. Clogged or damaged gutters can cause water to pool near your foundation, which can lead to cracks.
-Inspect your home regularly for any cracks or other signs of damage. If you do find damage, repair it as soon as possible.
-Check the grading around your foundation. The ground should slope away from your foundation to help drainage.
-If you have any trees near your foundation, make sure their roots are not growing too close to the concrete. Roots can cause cracks as they grow and expand.
Conclusion
There you have it — everything you need to know about whether or not foundation issues are covered by insurance. In short, the answer is yes, but there are some caveats. Make sure to talk to your agent and read your policy carefully to ensure that you are fully protected. And if you’re still not sure, consider hiring a professional to help you navigate the claims process.
