Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Foundation Issues? What You Need to Know

You probably don’t spend much time thinking about your home’s foundation until something goes wrong. Maybe you’ve noticed cracks creeping up the walls, doors sticking more than usual, or uneven floors that weren’t there before. Foundation issues can be stressful, not just because of the repair costs, but because you’re left wondering: Does my homeowners insurance actually cover this? Let’s break it down so you know what to expect before a small crack turns into a big headache.

Key Takeaway:

• Your dwelling coverage protects the structure of your home—including the foundation—when damage is tied to a listed peril.
• Homeowners insurance may cover foundation damage if it’s caused by a sudden, accidental peril, like a burst pipe, fire, or severe storm.
• Damage from normal wear and tear, poor maintenance, floods, earthquakes, or faulty construction is generally excluded.
• If you suspect foundation damage, contact your insurer promptly, document the issue, and get a professional inspection to support your claim.

Understanding Homeowners Insurance and Foundation Coverage

When it comes to your home’s foundation, not all damage is treated the same by your insurance. Homeowners insurance may cover repairs, but only if the issue is caused by a sudden and accidental event. These foundation damage-covered perils are key to understanding when your policy will step in and when you may be responsible for footing the bill yourself.

What Is Dwelling Coverage?

At the heart of your homeowners policy is Coverage A—Dwelling Coverage. This part of your policy protects the structure of your home, which includes the walls, roof, and yes, the foundation. Dwelling coverage typically pays to repair or rebuild your home’s structure, including the foundation, when the damage is caused by a listed peril.

What Are Covered Perils?

A covered peril is a sudden or accidental event that a homeowners insurance typically covers. Every policy is different, but the most common foundation damage covered perils are:

• Fire
• Explosion
• Burst pipes
• Vehicle impact
• Windstorms

If one of these events directly causes damage to your foundation, your policy will likely help cover the repairs. However, coverage applies only when the cause is sudden and unexpected, not from gradual deterioration or wear and tear over time.

Common Exclusions for Foundation Damage

There are situations your homeowners insurance won’t cover. These foundation exclusions and non-covered causes often include:

• Normal settling or shifting of the home
• Poor or inadequate maintenance
• Pressure from tree roots
• Floods or earthquakes (requires separate policies)
• Faulty construction or design flaws

Common Causes of Foundation Issues: Covered vs. Not Covered

Not all foundation problems look the same. The key to determining whether repairs may be covered is understanding what caused the damage in the first place.

Environmental Factors: Tree Roots & Soil Movement

Over time, shifting soil or invasive tree roots can place pressure on your home’s foundation, leading to cracks or uneven settling. Because this type of damage happens gradually, it’s generally considered a maintenance issue and is excluded from most homeowners policies. The exception would be if soil movement or root damage were the direct result of a covered peril, like a windstorm toppling a nearby tree.

Water-Related Causes: Slab Leaks & Burst Pipes

Water can be a foundation’s worst enemy. If a pipe bursts suddenly and causes damage, your homeowners insurance may cover the repairs. If a slow, long-term leak weakens the slab over time, it typically won’t be covered.

Earthquakes & Floods

When it comes to natural disasters, standard homeowners policies generally exclude damage caused by earthquakes and floods. That means foundation cracks or shifting linked to either event are not covered. To protect against these risks, homeowners often need separate policies or endorsements, such as earthquake or flood insurance.

How to File a Foundation Claim

If you believe your foundation damage is linked to a covered peril, knowing how to file a foundation claim can make the process smoother and help you get the support you need. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide:

1. Contact your insurer promptly: The sooner you notify your insurance company, the better. Delaying could complicate your claim, especially if the damage worsens over time.
2. Document the damage: Take clear photos and videos of the affected areas. If possible, collect repair estimates from contractors. Having thorough documentation helps strengthen your case and provides the adjuster with a clearer picture.
3. Get a professional inspection: Hire a qualified inspector or structural engineer to assess the damage and determine the cause. This step is crucial for confirming whether the issue stems from a covered peril.
4. Work with the adjuster through the claim process: Your insurer will assign an adjuster to review the evidence and inspection reports. Be prepared to answer questions, provide documents, and walk them through the damage in person.

For a broader look at your homeowners policy and how to start the claims process, you can visit GEICO’s Homeowners Insurance Overview page.

Preventive Measures to Avoid Costly Foundation Repairs

While homeowners insurance may cover foundation damage caused by a sudden, accidental event, prevention is always your best defense.

Regular Foundation Inspections

Schedule a professional foundation inspection every one to two years. These check-ups can catch small cracks or shifts before they turn into larger, more expensive problems. Routine inspections also provide documentation of your foundation’s condition, which can be helpful if you ever need to file a claim.

Water Management Around the Home

Water is one of the biggest threats to your foundation. Keep gutters free of debris, extend downspouts away from the house, and, if possible, make sure your yard slopes downward to direct water away from your foundation. Proper drainage can go a long way toward preventing erosion or pooling that weakens the soil beneath your home.

Early Leak Detection

Don’t ignore the warning signs of hidden water damage. Keep an eye on your utility bills for unexpected spikes in water usage, which can indicate a leak. Addressing plumbing issues early can help you avoid serious foundation damage.

Protecting Your Home’s Foundation with Help from GEICO Insurance Agency

Foundation issues can feel overwhelming, but understanding what’s covered under your homeowners insurance helps take some of the stress off your shoulders. Ready to make sure your home is properly protected? Get peace of mind with a policy designed to safeguard your biggest investment. Get help finding a free homeowners insurance quote through GEICO Insurance Agency today and take the next step toward protecting your home from the ground up.