Short answer: Pennsylvania has a risk most states don't: many homes sit over old, abandoned underground coal and clay mines. Homeowners insurance usually doesn't cover mine subsidence, so the state Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) sells separate Mine Subsidence Insurance. Flood also needs its own policy. If the voluntary market won't cover you, the Pennsylvania FAIR Plan offers basic property coverage, but homes with existing damage such as subsidence-cracked foundations are ineligible until repaired. Insurers must give 30 days' notice of non-renewal.
This guide is general information for Pennsylvania homeowners. It isn't legal advice. Your policy wording controls.
Step 1: Check for mine subsidence risk
The Pennsylvania DEP says millions of structures in Pennsylvania are located over old, abandoned underground coal and clay mines. Its Mine Subsidence Insurance pays for losses from unanticipated earth movement related to abandoned underground mines, and DEP offers it because homeowners insurance usually doesn't include it. Check DEP's risk information and apply online if it's recommended for your address.
Step 2: Add flood coverage
The Pennsylvania Insurance Department homeowners guide lists flood among standard exclusions, along with mold, wear and tear and settling. Quote flood through FloodSmart.
Step 3: The Pennsylvania FAIR Plan
Anyone with an insurable interest in Pennsylvania property at a fixed location may apply to the Pennsylvania FAIR Plan, according to its eligibility rules. The plan inspects properties and won't write buildings with significant existing damage, including mine subsidence bulging or cracked foundation walls and sagging floors, or buildings under a government order to vacate or raze. Repairs may be needed first. See FAIR Plan vs. surplus lines home insurance.
Step 4: Non-renewal notice and review
Under 40 P.S. §1171.5 and 31 Pa. Code ch. 59, insurers must give 30 days' notice of non-renewal. After a policy has been in force 60 days, the reasons are limited, and you have 10 days to request a review by the Insurance Department. Details: Pennsylvania homeowners non-renewal rules.
Step 5: Claim deadlines
Under 31 Pa. Code §146.5, insurers must acknowledge a claim within 10 working days and accept or deny within 15 working days after properly executed proofs of loss. More: Pennsylvania insurance claim deadlines.
See our tables: non-renewal notice rules by state, insurance claim deadlines by state and home insurance claim and lawsuit deadlines by state.
Questions? Contact Alishahi Insurance or call (877) 711-4545. See insurance in Pennsylvania.
Frequently asked questions
Does Pennsylvania homeowners insurance cover mine subsidence?
Usually not. The Pennsylvania DEP offers separate Mine Subsidence Insurance for damage from abandoned underground coal and clay mines.
Can I get Pennsylvania FAIR Plan coverage on a house with foundation damage?
Not with significant existing damage such as subsidence-cracked foundation walls or sagging floors. Repairs may be needed first.
How much notice before a Pennsylvania homeowners non-renewal?
30 days, under 40 P.S. §1171.5 and 31 Pa. Code ch. 59.
Can I challenge a Pennsylvania non-renewal?
Yes. You have 10 days to request a review by the Pennsylvania Insurance Department.
Alishahi Insurance · 439 N Canon Dr, Penthouse, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 · (877) 711-4545 · CA License #4348151. General information only. This isn't legal, tax or financial advice or a coverage determination. Coverage depends on policy language and underwriting, and rules vary by state.