A landslide destroyed my North Carolina home during Hurricane Helene — but my insurance won't cover the damage. Do I have any recourse?

Hurricane Helene caused a flurry of flooding, which can trigger landslides. However, landslides aren’t covered by standard homeowners insurance or even flood insurance. And that can leave a lot of people in a terrible spot.

Homeowners insurance won't cut it

Traditional homeowners insurance policies will often cover damage related to storms, but it depends on what type of damage is done. For example, damage from wind is typically covered, such as if a tree falls on your roof. In such cases, an insurer may approve a claim for repairs.

But flooding is different. Homeowners insurance policies generally won’t cover flood damage. So, if a large amount of rain falls and floods your home, without added flood coverage, your claim for that damage may be denied.

Similarly, landslides are considered an “earth movement” and any damage they cause is excluded from both standard home and flood coverage.

Disaster coverage

Homeowners in flood-prone areas may have access to flood insurance. The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), which is managed by FEMA, gives participating communities the opportunity to receive coverage.

Now, as previously mentioned, while it’s possible for a flood to lead to a landslide, a landslide is not a type of flood. Landslides are the movement of earth or rock. That’s why they’re not covered by flood insurance.

Landslides, however, aren’t to be confused with mudflows, which include excess water and may be covered under a flood policy.

Some insurance companies do sell policies that cover landslides, but they can be rare and expensive. It’s also noteworthy that, despite both events involving earth movement, earthquake insurance policies typically won’t cover landslides. So, you can’t assume you’re covered for both even if you have a separate policy or add-on for earthquakes.

What to do if your home is damaged

If your property has been impacted by a landslide and your insurance won't cover the damage, there may be ways to soften the blow.

First, you may want to see if your mortgage holder will allow you to put your loan into forbearance. This would allow you to temporarily pause your monthly payments. Unfortunately, you're still required to pay your mortgage, even if your home is destroyed.

Next, it pays to see if you're eligible for assistance through FEMA. The government agency provides aid to eligible households impacted by natural disasters. This can include funds and temporary housing if necessary.

Finally, there may also be aid available to you through a state agency.