Does homeowners insurance cover erosion damage?
Written by
Kiana Okafor
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.Homeowners' insurance policy provisions regarding erosion damage are complicated and require careful understanding. Most homeowner's policies exclude gradual erosion, but may provide coverage for sudden events caused by erosion, such as a mudslide, depending upon the cause involved. Insurers regard erosion as a preventable problem rather than an insurable risk in most cases.
Policy Exclusions
- Gradual erosion over months or years is excluded from coverage
- Damage from normal weathering processes isn't covered
- Poor property maintenance leading to erosion voids claims
- Earth movement without sudden collapse typically excluded
Possible Coverage
- Mudslides caused by sudden heavy rainfall might qualify
- Collapse from erosion undermining foundations could be covered
- Requires evidence of sudden, accidental damage
- Often limited to main structure not landscaping
Risk Reduction
- Document slope stabilization efforts with photos and receipts
- Install erosion controls like retaining walls and drainage
- Get annual property inspections from landscapers
- Maintain vegetation buffers around property lines
Preventive measures have a significant impact on insurance costs. Installation of retaining walls or drainage systems may also qualify for premium discounts. Maintenance of vegetative buffers demonstrates responsible ownership. Geotechnical surveys are required by many insurers for properties on steep slopes before coverage is offered.
Documentation is key to filing claims. Take pictures of all erosion controls, both before and after major storms. Save receipts for all slope stabilization work. Maintain records of regular property maintenance. This documentation confirms that we were diligent caretakers both before and during the claim review process.
Specialized polices provide limited erosion coverage. Difference in Conditions insurance provides coverage where the standard policies lack. Earth movement endorsements offer broader coverage. Flood insurance provides coverage for some erosion due to rising waters. These various types of coverage are more expensive, but they provide insurance for properties that are more susceptible to loss.
Before purchasing coverage, consult with professionals. Insurance brokerages clearly state policy exclusions. Geotechnical engineers assess the risk of slope stability. Landscape architects design effective systems to mitigate risk. Their input will help you choose the right coverage tailored to your property.
Read the full article: 10 Soil Erosion Prevention Methods That Work
