Alyssa Lane
Subsidence is a serious issue that can affect a homeowner's property, causing the ground beneath a home to sink and the foundations to shift, leading to structural damage such as large cracks in walls. While standard homeowners insurance typically does not cover subsidence, there are options available for those seeking protection against this risk. Most buildings insurance policies include subsidence cover, but only if the property has no history of subsidence. Specialist insurers can also provide cover for properties with a history of subsidence, though premiums may be higher. Additionally, in certain areas, mine subsidence coverage may be available, either as a separate policy or as an endorsement to an existing homeowners insurance policy.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| What is subsidence? | Subsidence occurs when the ground beneath your home sinks, causing your foundations to shift and potentially your house to sink. |
| How common is subsidence? | At least 45 states have been affected by subsidence spanning more than 17,000 square miles across the US. |
| What causes subsidence? | Common causes include clay soil shrinkage, trees near foundations, water leaks, and older homes with shallow foundations. Climate change and hotter summers are increasing subsidence risks. |
| How to prevent subsidence? | Keep gutters and pipes clear, prune nearby trees, avoid planting trees close to your property, and consult experts before removing any. |
| Does homeowners insurance cover subsidence? | Most standard homeowners insurance policies do not cover subsidence, but some state governments and private insurers provide mine subsidence coverage for at-risk properties. |
| How to get subsidence coverage? | Contact your state's subsidence insurance program or your current insurer. You may be able to purchase mine subsidence coverage as a separate policy or an add-on to your existing policy. |
| What does subsidence coverage include? | Subsidence coverage generally pays for damage caused by underground mines and mine water breakouts, but eligible structures and coverage limits vary by state. For example, in Pennsylvania, coverage extends to buildings but not the land or personal items. |
| What is the cost of subsidence coverage? | The cost of a mine subsidence policy varies by state and coverage amount. In Illinois, it costs an average of $71 per year for $200,000 in coverage. |
| What to do if you think you have subsidence? | Contact your insurer immediately and get a professional assessment. They will advise you on the next steps, which may include monitoring, investigation, and potential repairs. |
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What You'll Learn
Standard homeowners insurance policies
Mine subsidence insurance can be purchased separately or added to an existing policy as an endorsement. In certain areas, insurance companies are required to include mine subsidence coverage in homeowners insurance policies. For example, in 34 counties in Illinois, insurance companies must provide mine subsidence coverage to residents. The cost of a mine subsidence policy varies depending on the state and the amount of coverage purchased. In Illinois, for instance, the average cost is $71 per year for $200,000 in coverage.
Most standard buildings insurance policies will cover subsidence if the property has not suffered from it in the past. However, many insurers will refuse coverage if the property has a history of subsidence, as the cost of repairing subsidence damage can be very high. If a property has previously experienced subsidence, the risk of it happening again is higher, and insurers may charge higher premiums to cover potential future claims.
Subsidence is caused by the ground beneath a structure sinking, often due to changes in moisture levels in clay soil or water leaks. This can lead to structural damage, such as large cracks in walls, and can make the building unstable. If you suspect your property is experiencing subsidence, you should contact your insurer immediately. They will advise you on the necessary steps, which may include a professional assessment and repairs.
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Specialist insurers
Homeowners may face higher premiums with specialist insurers due to the increased risk associated with properties that have previously experienced subsidence. The cost of specialist subsidence home insurance can vary depending on factors such as the property's location, its history of subsidence, and the level of coverage required.
It is important to note that not all insurers will cover subsidence, and those that do may have specific requirements or exclusions. For example, some insurers may require a Certificate of Structural Adequacy to confirm the stability of the property. Homeowners should carefully review the terms and conditions of their policy to understand their coverage.
In summary, specialist insurers can provide a valuable service to homeowners who have experienced subsidence by offering tailored policies and comprehensive cover. However, it is essential to shop around and compare different providers to find the most suitable policy for your needs and budget.
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Higher premiums
If your home has previously suffered from subsidence, you may find that your insurance premiums increase. This is because your property is now considered a higher risk, and insurers may charge more to cover potential future claims.
Subsidence is when the ground beneath your home sinks, causing your foundations to shift and potentially leading to structural damage, such as large cracks in walls. It is considered an "earth movement," which is typically excluded from standard homeowners insurance coverage. As a result, if your home has experienced subsidence, it may be challenging to find an insurance policy that covers it.
Most buildings insurance policies include subsidence cover as standard, but only if your home has never suffered from subsidence before. If your home has previously been affected by subsidence, you may need to look for a specialist policy or broker. The British Insurance Brokers' Association can provide advice and recommend specialists in this area.
Additionally, some states and private insurers provide mine subsidence coverage for at-risk properties. Mine subsidence insurance covers damage caused by underground mines and mine water breakouts, and the coverage limits vary by state. For example, in Illinois, the average cost of $200,000 in mine subsidence coverage is $71 per year.
It is important to note that if your home has suffered from subsidence, you must declare it to your insurer to avoid having your claim rejected. The cost of repairing subsidence damage can be expensive, and your insurance may cover the costs of fixing the damage and repairing any resulting issues.
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Mine subsidence coverage
Mine subsidence is the most common type of subsidence that homeowners have to deal with. It occurs when the roof of a subsurface mine collapses, causing the ground above to sink or subside. This can lead to initial damage that appears suddenly, or it can develop gradually over time. In some cases, the first signs of mine subsidence may appear within a few hours or days, with gradual movement continuing for anywhere from a couple of years to more than a decade.
If you suspect that your home is being affected by mine subsidence, it is important to contact your insurance agent or company. They will be able to advise you on the next steps, which may include monitoring by a surveyor or investigating the foundations and taking soil samples. Repairs may be covered by insurance and often include underpinning, which can add strength to the structure.
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Subsidence prevention
Subsidence is the gradual sinking or vertical collapse of the ground beneath a building, which eventually pulls down the property's foundations. It is considered an “earth movement” and is specifically excluded from most homeowners insurance coverage.
- Tree Management: Trees are one of the most common causes of subsidence as their roots withdraw moisture from the soil supporting the foundations. Avoid planting trees or shrubs near your home, and if you cannot remove them, maintain them with regular pruning.
- Gutters and Pipes: Keep your gutters, pipes, and drains clear and unblocked.
- Soil Type: Clay soils are particularly susceptible to subsidence as they shrink when dry and expand when wet. If you live in an area with clay soil, be vigilant about checking for signs of subsidence.
- Driveway: Ensure that your driveway is level. Unlevel driveways can cause water pooling, increasing the risk of subsidence and concrete cracking.
- Plumbing: Regularly inspect your residential plumbing for signs of small leaks. Excess water in the ground will cause the soil to shift, potentially leading to foundation issues.
- Proximity to Mining Sites: When choosing a home location, consider the distance from mining sites. The further away you are, the lower the risk of mine subsidence caused by soil shifting due to explosions or heavy construction.
- Polyurethane Resin Injections: If you notice signs of subsidence, such as sinking concrete floors or cracked walls, consider using polyurethane resin injections to prevent further damage. This method compresses and strengthens the soil beneath the affected area.
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Frequently asked questions
Subsidence occurs when the ground beneath your home sinks, causing the foundations to shift and the house to become unstable. This can lead to structural damage, such as large cracks in walls, and doors and windows sticking or not closing properly.
Most buildings insurance policies include subsidence cover as standard, but only if your home hasn't had subsidence issues before. If your home has previously suffered from subsidence, finding an insurance policy to protect it can be tricky, and you may need to find a specialist insurance provider.
Subsidence insurance will typically cover repairs for damage caused by subsidence, such as underpinning to strengthen the foundation of the property. Some policies also cover replacement costs for lost and damaged items due to subsidence, and alternative accommodation if you need to move out while your house is being repaired.
Signs of subsidence include cracks in walls, particularly diagonal cracks on the inside and outside of your property extending to ground level. If you think your home is subsiding, contact your insurer immediately and get a professional assessment.
