What Homeowners Policies Usually Exclude
Standard policies are written to cover sudden, accidental damage. Foundation damage usually builds slowly, and most policies list its common causes as exclusions:
- Settling, shrinking, bulging or cracking of foundations, walls and floors
- Earth movement, such as soil that shifts, sinks or swells
- Surface water, flooding and groundwater seeping through walls
- Wear and tear, deterioration and lack of maintenance
That covers the most common foundation problems around Fort Wayne: walls pushed in by wet clay, and footings that settle as the soil under them dries out or compresses.
When Insurance May Cover Foundation Repair
- Sudden plumbing leaks: some policies cover foundation damage caused by a burst or leaking pipe that washes out soil under the house, depending on how the policy treats that kind of water damage.
- A covered event: damage from something the policy does cover, such as a vehicle hitting the house or a fallen tree.
- Collapse: some policies cover sudden collapse under specific, narrow conditions.
- Separate coverage: flood insurance is a separate policy, and some insurers sell endorsements for water backup or other perils.
Before You File a Claim
- Read the exclusions and the section on water damage in your policy, or ask your agent to walk you through them.
- Take dated photos of the cracks, any water and anything damaged.
- Prevent further damage where you safely can, and keep receipts.
- Get a written inspection report. An independent engineer report carries the most weight if the cause is disputed.
- Ask whether filing a claim that is likely to be denied could affect your record with the insurer.
If Insurance Will Not Pay
Most homeowners pay for foundation repair themselves. Ask contractors whether they offer financing, compare it with other options, and get several quotes for the same scope. Fixing water problems early, with gutters, grading and drainage, is the cheapest way to avoid a larger repair later.
See typical prices in our guide to foundation repair cost in Fort Wayne, and learn about foundation piering and basement waterproofing.