Are you covered for tiles that crack or lift?

(Updated 15 August 2024)

We often receive claim forms and invoices/quotes for repairs to tiles that have lifted or cracked suddenly and for no apparent reason.

For an insurance policy to respond to a claim in these circumstances, the cause needs to be clearly established so that an insured peril or event can be proven. (Examples would be fire, explosion, earthquake and impact by vehicle or object of sorts.) A claim would be settled in event of these causes.

It is quite common that tiles, whether floor or wall, suddenly ‘pop’ or ‘tent’ (cracking and lifting) for reasons of increased moisture levels and or temperature variations that give rise to expansion and contraction where the space allowance between the tiles is insufficient. It can also happen because the adhesive is not flexible enough (or even or mixed) or just applied incorrectly. Another cause is the natural movement of the building and/or the ground heave wherein movement of the substrata (concrete slab) causes stress to floor tiles. These are not ‘sudden and unforeseen’ causes but rather an on-going or gradual process.

The following causes of damages are NOT covered by the traditional perils-based insurance policies:

– Defects in design, material, formula, specification, construction or workmanship.
– Wear and tear, corrosion, rust or oxidation, fading, chipping, scratching and/or marring.
– Gradual deterioration and/or developing flaws.
– Changes in texture or finish, temperature variation, dryness, moisture / humidity / dampness, creeping, heaving or vibration.
– Changes of atmospheric or climatic conditions.
– The action of insects and vermin (pests).

More recently, and following the introduction of all risk type policies, some insurers have been more specifically excluding this risk. See two policy exclusion wordings below:

Example A

“We will not pay for:

1. a) the lifting or cracking of tiles and floor coverings, caused by changes in temperature or the incorrect application of tile cement; inadequate tile cement; incorrect expansion gaps or poor building practices;
2. b) consequential loss or damage of any kind whatsoever, except to the extent specifically provided for under Loss of Rent and Loss of Water;”

Example B

“We will not pay for… tenting or lifting of tiles unless caused by an event not excluded from cover”

It can be concluded from above then, that where tiles suddenly crack and/or lift (in the absence of an insured peril or event), there is no cover.