Guest Blogger Jim Oursler, Founder and Owner of Granite Foundation Repair
Having a damaged and unstable foundation is a homeowner’s worst nightmare. The thought of your home collapsing is truly terrifying. You purchase homeowners insurance to protect your investment, but is your foundation repair covered by insurance as well?
A standard home insurance policy will cover damage to your home and belongings caused by major events including fire, theft, and wind. It is important to note that a standard homeowner’s policy rarely applies to the foundation unless specifically added to your policy. Even if you have added foundation coverage to your homeowner’s insurance policy there are still situations where foundation damage and repairs will not be covered.
So does your homeowner’s insurance cover foundation repairs? There is no easy direct answer to this question as it all depends on the actual cause of damage and what is included on your policy when the damage occurs.
Why do insurers shy away from foundation-related coverage?
When it comes to foundation damage, there are numerous risks involved that often discourage insurers from offering standard and broad coverage.
Foundation damage could be caused by various factors.
What are the common causes of foundation problems?
There are 5 common causes of foundation problems.
- Poor soil compaction
- Large tree roots
- Leaks from plumbing fixtures
- Lack of a proper foundation drainage system
- Soil and climate problems
What are the most common types of foundation damage?
- Damage due to a broken pipe and/or faulty plumbing.
- Damages caused by third-parties or falling objects.
- Damages caused by natural disasters.
Foundation repair methods
Steel Pier
Steel piers are made of high carbon tubular steel. Granite steel is installed in five-foot lengths, connected by 12-inch inserts. A small 12 x 18-inch hole is required, as contrasted with concrete pilings or poured concrete piers, requiring a 24 x 24-inch hole.
Concrete Pier
This is one of the oldest methods of foundation repair. When properly installed, it will provide long-term foundation support. All concrete pier types require large holes and more landscape removal than steel piers.
Drainage Solutions
Drainage solutions are a practical method of foundation repair in certain instances. Poor drainage can lead to foundation damage and house leveling, which is why drainage solutions and proper drainage are so important.
- A proper slope of soil away from the house
- Gutter and A/C run-off control
- Surface Drains
- French Drains
What can you do if you are unable to file a claim with your homeowners’ insurance policy?
If foundation damage is not covered by your insurance policy there are a few things you can do to avoid costly repair:
- In case of defective construction, claim your warranty. However, that’s only if your building contractor issued you with a valid warranty before the construction began.
- Perform regular and proactive maintenance. Regular maintenance helps you to spot and fix minor issues before they become major problems.
The question as to whether Homeowner’s Insurance covers foundation repairs does not have a clear answer because there are so many variables.
It is always recommended that you work with an independent insurance agent who can make sure your homeowners insurance covers both your home and foundation correctly.
