Insurance Topic
Earth Movement
Earth movement refers to ground displacement phenomena that may impact insured property and are evaluated within property insurance policy terms.
Definition
Earth movement is a property insurance term describing the shifting, settling, rising, sinking, or cracking of earth that can cause damage to structures or improvements on land.
Structural Characteristics
- Ground displacement affecting soil or rock.
- May occur gradually or suddenly.
- Can result in stress or failure of foundations and structural components.
- Often evaluated independently of weather-related perils.
Parameters & Conditions
- Assessment is based on causation rather than visible damage alone.
- Includes both natural and man-made ground changes unless otherwise specified.
- Policy interpretation may depend on exclusions, endorsements, or definitions.
Topic Relationships
Exceptions, Limitations & Boundaries
Earth movement may be excluded or limited under many standard property insurance forms, and applicability depends on explicit policy language and related endorsements.
Earth Movement: Definitional FAQ
Is earth movement the same as foundation movement?
Earth movement is a broader concept that can include foundation movement as a resulting condition.
Does earth movement only refer to earthquakes?
No, it encompasses various forms of ground displacement beyond seismic activity.
Is earth movement always excluded in property insurance?
Coverage treatment varies by policy form and specific exclusions or endorsements.