The short answer is usually no. But the full answer depends on what caused the damage, and it is worth understanding before you file a claim or give up on one.
What Standard Policies Typically Exclude
Most standard homeowners insurance policies exclude the following:
- Foundation settling, shifting, or cracking from soil movement
- Water damage from ground seepage or a rising water table
- Flood damage, which requires separate flood insurance
- Damage that occurred gradually over time rather than from a sudden event
Ohio's clay soil is a significant driver of foundation movement, and insurers treat that movement as a maintenance and geological issue rather than a covered peril.
What Might Be Covered
There are situations where insurance does apply:
Sudden and accidental water damage from a burst pipe or plumbing failure that damages the foundation or basement is typically covered under dwelling coverage.
Tree or vehicle impact causing structural damage to a foundation wall is usually covered.
Fire or explosion damage affecting the foundation would fall under standard coverage.
The key distinction insurers make is between sudden, unexpected events versus gradual deterioration. Foundation issues almost always fall in the gradual category.
Before Filing a Claim
Filing a claim that gets denied still shows up in your insurance history and can affect future premiums and insurability. Before filing, call your insurer and describe the situation without formally opening a claim. Ask if the cause would be covered under your policy. Then decide whether to proceed.
Our recommendation: Get a foundation assessment first. Know what the problem is and what caused it before involving your insurer. That way you have accurate information when you make the call.
Financing Options
Most of our customers pay out of pocket or use third-party financing for foundation repair. We can discuss financing options when we come out for your estimate.