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Can Your Homeowners Insurance Cover Foundation Repair?

Nov 19, 2025

Homeowners Insurance

Can Your Homeowners Insurance Cover Foundation Repair?

A home's foundation is critical to safety and value, but repairs can cost anywhere from $2,000 to $100,000 depending on severity. Many California homeowners wonder: does home insurance cover foundation repair? Let's explore what's included, what's excluded, and how to maximize coverage for structural safety.

When Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Foundation Repair?

Most standard homeowners policies cover foundation repair ONLY if the damage occurs due to an insured peril:

  • Fire or smoke
  • Lightning
  • Wind or severe storms
  • Hail
  • Vandalism or explosions
  • Vehicle impact (a car crash into your house)
  • Falling trees/branches
  • Sudden water damage (burst pipes, NOT flooding)

Your policy's "dwelling coverage" (Coverage A) protects the structure (including the foundation) from these events. If your detached garage or other outbuildings are damaged by a covered peril, repair costs should be included as well.

Common Exclusions: What's NOT Covered?

Homeowners insurance will not pay for foundation repairs when damage is caused by the following:

  • Flooding (get separate flood insurance)
  • Earthquake (requires earthquake insurance)
  • Normal wear and tear / settlement
  • Poor construction
  • Water backup from sewers, sump pumps, drains
  • Pests such as termites, rodents
  • Sinkholes (except in Florida or Tennessee, with extra coverage)
  • Neglect or lack of maintenance

For foundation damage due to water backup or sewer issues, consider adding a water backup endorsement to your policy.

How to File a Homeowners Foundation Repair Claim

  1. Document damage: Photos, videos, and written details
  2. Determine cause: Was damage sudden and accidental, or gradual?
  3. Contact your insurance agent: Report the incident and provide evidence; get a copy of the policy if needed
  4. Schedule inspection: Insurer may send an adjuster to verify the cause and estimate repair costs
  5. Follow up: Get repair estimates, stay in contact until claim is resolved

Prevention Tips to Protect Your Foundation

Insurance only covers damage from unexpected perils, not neglect. Reduce risk and keep your home insurable:

  • Check and repair gutters and drainage regularly
  • Maintain a consistent moisture level in your landscaping
  • Avoid planting large trees close to your foundation
  • Inspect foundation cracks and address them promptly

Don't Let Foundation Worries Undermine Your Peace of Mind

Contact us today to get in touch with the experts at John E. Peakes Insurance Agency for a policy review, personalized coverage guidance, and expert answers about homeowners insurance foundation repair. We'll help you understand exclusions, add coverage for extra risks (floods, earthquakes, water backup), and ensure you're ready for anything California's climate throws your way. Call [1-800-800-5199], or visit our Ventura or Lancaster offices to get started, protect your investment and your future.

FAQs on Does Home Insurance Cover Foundation Repair?

  1. Will my insurance pay for cracks from natural settling?

    No, natural settling and wear/tear are not covered-you must pay for these repairs yourself.

  2. Is flood or earthquake foundation damage insured?

    Not under standard home insurance. You need specific flood or earthquake coverage for those repairs.

  3. Can I get extra coverage for sewer or water backup damage?

    Yes, ask about adding a water backup endorsement to your policy for such risks.

  4. What proof do I need for a claim?

    Provide documentation (photos, inspection, repair estimates) showing damage was sudden and linked to a covered peril.

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