Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Retaining Walls?

Homeowners insurance policies protect your residence and other structures from damages. These policies typically cover your house (dwelling coverage), personal belongings, liability, and additional living expenses if your home becomes uninhabitable. Understanding policy scope, especially for features like retaining walls, helps homeowners prepare for potential repair costs.

General Coverage Principles

Retaining walls are generally considered “other structures” under a standard homeowners insurance policy. This “other structures” coverage (Coverage B) applies to unattached structures like detached garages, sheds, fences, and retaining walls. Coverage B typically has a limit, often 10% of your dwelling coverage. For example, a $300,000 dwelling policy might provide up to $30,000 for your retaining wall.

While retaining walls are often covered, this coverage is not automatic. It depends on your policy’s specific language and the cause of damage. Policies vary, with some explicitly excluding retaining walls. Confirming if your retaining wall falls under “other structures” or requires a specific endorsement is important.

Common Covered Perils

Homeowners insurance policies typically cover retaining wall damage if it results from a “covered peril.” Common perils include fire, lightning, windstorms, hail, and vandalism. For example, if fire damages your wall or a strong windstorm causes collapse, your policy likely covers repair or replacement. Damage from vehicles striking the wall may also be covered.

Policies can be either “named perils” or “open perils.” A named perils policy covers only specific listed events. An open perils policy provides broader coverage, covering all risks unless specifically excluded. While open perils policies offer more comprehensive protection, they are usually more expensive.

Standard Policy Exclusions

Homeowners insurance policies frequently exclude retaining wall damage caused by specific events or conditions. Earth movement is a common exclusion, encompassing damage from landslides, mudslides, sinkholes, and earthquakes. If your retaining wall collapses due to soil erosion or ground shifting, standard homeowners insurance will likely not cover the damage.

Other common exclusions include gradual deterioration, wear and tear, and poor maintenance. Policies also exclude damage from faulty design, construction, or improper workmanship. For example, if the wall was poorly built or failed due to lack of upkeep, the insurer may deny the claim. Flood damage is another common exclusion, often requiring a separate flood insurance policy.

Understanding Your Specific Policy

To determine exact coverage for your retaining wall, review your homeowners insurance policy documents. Look for sections detailing “Dwelling Coverage” (Coverage A) and “Other Structures Coverage” (Coverage B). Retaining walls are typically addressed under the “Other Structures” section.

Pay close attention to definitions of terms like “earth movement,” “structural damage,” and “covered perils” within your policy. These definitions clarify coverage scope. Identify any specific endorsements or riders that might extend or limit coverage for retaining walls or related perils. If policy language is unclear, contact your insurance provider for clarification.

Taking Action After Damage

If your retaining wall sustains damage, immediate action can streamline a potential insurance claim. Ensure the area’s safety and prevent further damage, such as covering exposed sections. Document the damage thoroughly with photos and videos from multiple angles. Date-stamping these records provides a clear timeline.

Create a detailed written description of the damage, noting the date and time it occurred. Keep records of any temporary repairs and retain receipts for materials or services. Promptly notify your insurance company about the damage, as delayed reporting can complicate the claims process. Provide all documentation and follow the insurer’s instructions for filing the claim.