Does homeowners insurance cover structural issues?
Andrew Henderson
Published Apr 06, 2026
Does homeowners insurance cover structural issues?
Most policies do not cover structural damage unless protected by certain events. In many cases, homeowners need to add specific circumstances to their existing homeowners insurance policy or take a separate policy for structural issues on home insurance.
Are structural repairs covered by insurance?
Does home insurance cover structural problems? Typically, home insurance does not cover structural problems. It’s also unlikely that your home insurance will cover any defects in design, materials, workmanship or construction.
Who pays for structural damage?
When Structural Damage Is Covered The insurance company will pay out on structural damage if it occurred due to unpredictable events and not maintenance issues. The following events will be covered: Unexpected Incidents.
Can a home insurance policy cover structural damage?
Home insurance might not prevent damage to a building’s structure, but it can help cover any costs that come as a result of the problem. Get in touch with us to find out what our Defaqto rated cover can do for you.
Can a home buyer get a structural warranty?
Many builders include an insurance backed structural home warranty on all of their home sales. Some builders offer it as an option for buyers to add to the cost of their purchase. These warranties are only available to purchase by a home builder.
What’s the difference between a structural warranty and an insurance policy?
Integral to any warranty and insurance difference, Structural Warranty doesn’t cover any damage due to natural disaster, accidents or unforeseen circumstances; anything that is covered under insurance, basically. All in all you should ensure that you have a warranty on new homes.
What’s the difference between dwelling and structure insurance?
Dwelling coverage, also known as home structure coverage, helps protect the physical structure of your home, like the walls and roof. It can also cover a structure that’s attached to your home, like an attached garage. Typical homeowners insurance policies don’t cover damage to your structure from things like flooding or earthquakes.
Why do I need to get home insurance for structural damage?
Another reason to consult a professional is you might have a listed building or an older home, which will need a different course of action than a newer build. Home insurance might not prevent damage to a building’s structure, but it can help cover any costs that come as a result of the problem.
What kind of damage is covered by home insurance?
You’ll have to check your policy. Insurers will likely cover you for accidents like fires and floods, as well as heave and subsidence. Settlement is not usually covered as standard, nor long-term structural damage that’s been developing for some time.
Can a homeowners insurance policy cover a foundation?
Depending on your policy, they may or may not cover damages to your foundation. You are likely not to get any coverage if the damage can be classified as maintenance-related concerns.
What kind of insurance do I need for a building under construction?
A Builder’s Risk Policy provides coverage for a building under construction or renovation. This policy can be purchased by the homeowner, or the contractor – depending on what is agreed upon in the building contract. A homeowners policy excludes coverage for theft or attempted theft of building materials.