Does Insurance Covers Foundation Repair?

Does insurance covers foundation repair? In most cases, homeowners insurance covers foundation damage only when a sudden event listed in the policy causes the problem. However, insurance usually does not pay for damage caused by normal settling, poor drainage, long-term water problems, soil movement, or a lack of maintenance.

Because every insurance policy is different, homeowners should contact their insurance agent before assuming a repair will be covered.

Signs to Look For

Foundation damage often starts with small warning signs. Therefore, catching the problem early may help prevent larger and more expensive repairs.

Common signs include:

• Cracks in basement walls or floors
• Stair-step cracks in brick or concrete block
• Doors and windows that stick
• Bowing or leaning basement walls
• Uneven or sloping floors
• Water entering through foundation cracks
• Gaps around windows, doors, or ceilings

Additionally, a damp or musty basement may point to a water problem around the foundation. Water in a crawl space can also weaken wood, increase humidity, and create unhealthy conditions.

Common Causes of Foundation Damage

Foundation problems can have several causes. For example, heavy rain can soak the soil around a home and increase pressure against basement walls. Cincinnati-area homes often experience changing soil conditions, periods of heavy rainfall, and freezing winter temperatures.

Poor grading, clogged gutters, damaged downspouts, plumbing leaks, and weak drainage can also allow water to collect near the foundation. Over time, cracks may form or existing cracks may grow.

So, does insurance covers foundation repair caused by these problems? Coverage depends on the cause. Standard homeowners insurance commonly excludes damage caused by maintenance problems, flooding, and many forms of earth movement. However, sudden damage caused by a covered event, such as a fire or certain plumbing failures, may qualify. The Insurance Information Institute recommends reviewing the exact covered events and exclusions in your policy. (Triple-I)

Best Solutions

The right solution begins with a complete foundation and moisture inspection. Simply filling a visible crack may not solve the pressure or water problem behind it.

EverDry of Cincinnati uses a patented waterproofing and humidity-control process designed to address water from both the exterior and interior of the home. U.S. Patent No. 6,904,723 describes a system that combines drainage, waterproofing, and humidity-control features. (Google Patents)

Unlike an inside-only water-control system, EverDry’s basement waterproofing approach addresses both sides of the foundation. An interior-only system may redirect water after it enters the foundation area, but it may not solve the outside source of the problem. Therefore, treating both the exterior and interior provides a more complete solution.

EverDry also offers a lifetime transferable warranty covering the basement floor and walls.

When to Call a Pro

Call a foundation repair or waterproofing professional when cracks grow, walls bow, water enters the basement, or doors stop closing correctly. Likewise, seek help when your crawl space stays wet or your basement smells damp and musty.

After an inspection, you can provide the findings to your insurance company. Photos, repair estimates, maintenance records, and details about when the damage appeared may help your insurer review the claim.

Local Considerations for Cincinnati Homes

EverDry of Cincinnati is locally owned and has served Greater Cincinnati, Dayton, Northern Kentucky, Southeastern Indiana, and surrounding cities for more than 40 years. As a result, the team understands the rain, soil, drainage, and foundation challenges found in local homes.

So, does insurance covers foundation repair? Sometimes it does, but only when the cause meets the conditions in your policy. Whether insurance pays or not, delaying repairs may allow water and structural damage to become worse.

Your healthy home solution may be available for as low as $149 per month through EverDry’s financing plan. Call EverDry of Cincinnati today 513-874-7200 or complete the contact form on everdrycincy.com to request a foundation and basement inspection.