Are Foundation Cracks Covered by Home Insurance?
Foundation cracks are not automatically covered by standard home insurance policies because they are often considered part of regular wear and tear or maintenance issues.
Home insurance typically covers damages caused by sudden or accidental events, not issues that develop gradually due to lack of maintenance or the aging of your house.
Foundation cracks caused by specific events might be covered depending on the cause and the terms of your policy:
- Earthquakes: Standard home insurance does not usually cover damage from earthquakes, including foundation cracks caused by seismic activity. If you live in an area prone to earthquakes, you would need to purchase separate earthquake insurance to cover damages caused by an earthquake, including foundation damage.
- Other covered events: If the foundation cracks are caused by a covered event, like a storm, flooding (if you have flood insurance), or sudden water damage, your home insurance might cover the repairs. It’s important to review your specific policy, as exclusions and coverage can vary.
Did you know? Spring is often when foundation cracks become more noticeable or worsen due to the ground thawing and increased moisture from rain and melting snow.
Is concrete settlement covered by insurance?
Concrete settlement (or sinking) is typically not covered by standard homeowners insurance policies. This is because settlement is usually considered a maintenance issue or a gradual problem resulting from natural factors like soil movement, water drainage issues, or the aging of the property.
Home insurance generally covers damage caused by sudden and accidental events (like fire, vandalism, or a burst pipe), but settling concrete is often the result of natural forces or poor construction practices over time, which are excluded from coverage.
What’s Not Covered:
- Gradual Settlement: If the settlement is due to the natural settling of the ground over time or poor installation, it is not covered.
- Poor Drainage or Foundation Issues: If improper drainage or foundational issues lead to the settlement, these are generally considered maintenance problems.
One of the most significant factors that contributes to foundation cracks and sinkholes during the spring is the increase in moisture levels.
What is the difference between a surface crack and a structural crack?
A surface crack is usually thin, less than 1/8 inch wide, and may appear on the surface of concrete. It can be repaired with concrete.
A structural crack is wider, deeper, and may run through the entire thickness of your foundation. A horizontal crack in your foundation, especially if it's wider than 1/8 inch, is a serious issue that usually requires professional repair. Diagonal or stair-step cracks in foundations can also indicate a problem with the stability of your foundation.
When is the best time to repair a foundation?
Late summer or fall have more moderate temperatures and soil moisture, making it a better time to get your home’s foundation repaired.
How much can it cost to repair a foundation?
It can range from a few hundred dollars for minor cracks to tens of thousands for major structural problems or complete replacement.
