Does Insurance Cover Sinking Foundation

Does Insurance Cover Sinking Foundation?

If you're a homeowner, you know that sinking is one of the most serious problems that can affect your home. It can cause cracks in your walls and floors, damage to your plumbing and electrical systems, and even lead to the collapse of your home. If you're lucky, you may be able to fix the problem by repairing the foundation or installing a new one. However, this can be a very expensive process, and it's not always covered by insurance.

So, does homeowners insurance cover sinking foundation? The answer is: it depends. Most homeowner's insurance policies do not cover sinking foundation if the cause is related to soil conditions. This is because soil conditions are considered to be an "earth movement" and most homeowner's insurance policies exclude coverage for earth movements. However, there are some exceptions to this rule. For example, some policies may cover sinking foundation if the cause is a covered peril, such as a fire or a flood. Additionally, some policies may offer optional coverage for earth movements, which can be purchased for an additional premium. It is important to read your homeowner's insurance policy carefully to determine if you have coverage for sinking foundation.

If you do not have coverage for sinking foundation, there are a few things you can do to protect yourself. First, you can take steps to prevent sinking foundation from occurring. This includes properly maintaining your drainage system and avoiding planting trees too close to your home. Second, you can purchase a separate policy that covers earth movements. This type of policy is typically more expensive than a standard homeowner's insurance policy, but it can provide you with peace of mind knowing that you are covered in the event of a sinking foundation.

If you think your foundation is sinking, it is important to have it inspected by a qualified professional. The professional will be able to determine the cause of the sinking and recommend the best course of action.