Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Structural Damage?

Yes, homeowners insurance usually covers structural damage if a sudden and unexpected event causes it. This protection falls under your policy’s dwelling coverage, which covers your home’s foundation, walls, roof and other attached structures. For example, you’re covered if:

• A fire damages your home’s structural integrity
• A heavy snow load causes part of your roof to collapse
• A tornado or windstorm tears through your walls or foundation

Coverage varies by policy and the specific perils listed. Review your policy or contact your provider for details on covered perils.

Your homeowners insurance won't cover structural damage in several situations, including poor workmanship, neglect or foundation issues. For instance, homeowners insurance doesn’t cover damage from rotting wood or mold, especially if you were aware of the problem and didn't take steps to prevent it.

Standard homeowners insurance has limitations regarding structural issues, especially those caused by natural disasters or local building codes. Optional coverages or endorsements can fill these gaps and offer stronger protection for your home’s structural integrity.

While the best homeowners insurance can protect you financially after structural damage, prevention is the smarter first move. Taking preventive action helps you avoid expensive repairs and minimizes the likelihood of coverage rejections. MoneyGeek recommends these ways to protect your home's structure:

You can buy homeowners insurance from major insurers like Progressive, State Farm and GEICO. Smaller providers such as Hippo and Lemonade also offer coverage options worth considering. To find the best policy for your needs, compare quotes from multiple insurers before choosing a provider.

The average cost of homeowners insurance in the U.S. is around $175 per month, but your rate will vary based on your home’s value, location and coverage selections. You can use MoneyGeek’s personal property calculator below to estimate how much insurance you need.

Homeowners insurance covers structural damage that is sudden and caused by a covered peril, not from neglect, poor construction or wear and tear.

Dwelling coverage protects structural components like your foundation, roof and walls, but only when a covered peril causes damage. No policy covers problems you fail to address. Regular inspections and proper maintenance are key to staying physically and financially protected if your home is older or at higher risk for structural issues.

Structural damage can be complex, particularly regarding what's covered under a standard homeowners policy. Below are answers to common questions about structural insurance coverage and exclusions.

MoneyGeek evaluates homeowners insurance coverage using independent analysis, regulatory filings and real-world policy data. Our insights are based on official rate filings submitted by insurers to state departments of insurance and compiled and processed by Quadrant Information Services. This ensures we provide accurate and current information on how structural damage is typically handled in standard policies.

We also reviewed insurer policy documents and industry best practices to understand how coverage applies to dwelling structures, including foundations, roofs and walls, as well as common exclusions related to maintenance and construction defects. Our recommendations reflect general trends across providers, but coverage specifics vary by insurer, location and policy type.