Home insurance generally covers wind damage, but exclusions may apply in some cases. Here are a few things to consider regarding wind damage and home insurance.
WHEN ARE WIND DAMAGES DAMAGED BY REAL ESTATE INSURANCE?
Windstorms are one of the dangers generally covered by home insurance. However, some owner’s guidelines exclude coverage for wind damage. It is a good idea to read your policy to determine if it includes coverage for wind damage.
If your landlord’s insurance includes storm insurance, there are two types of protection that can help you after a storm has damaged your home:
A housing cover that helps protect the structure of a house can help repair repairs if, for example, the wind damages the roof, siding, or windows of your house.
Personal property coverage can help replace the contents of your home if it is damaged by wind or rain, snow, sleet, sand, or dust that the wind pushes after damaging the structure of your home.
DOES HOUSEHOLD INSURANCE COVER DAMAGE FROM TORNADO OR HURRICANE?
Home insurance generally covers damage caused by windstorms caused by tornadoes and hurricanes.
However, if your policy excludes damage caused by the storm, it probably won’t help cover repair costs if your home is damaged by a tornado or hurricane. Be sure to read your directions to understand the coverage.
Also, note that home insurance generally does not cover flooding. Therefore, even if your home insurance policy covers damage caused by windstorms caused by a tornado or a hurricane, it is unlikely that such damage will be covered if a flood or rising water accompanies the storm. Flood insurance is a separate policy that is sold through the national flood insurance program.
DEDUCTION AND COVERAGE LIMITS FOR WINDSHIELDS
If your home insurance covers wind damage, a deductible is generally applicable. Your deductible is the amount you pay out of your pocket before your insurance takes effect to help you pay for a covered claim. Some home insurance policies have special deductibles for damage caused by wind and hailstorms, tropical cyclones, or hurricanes. Your deductibles are listed in your landlord’s insurance. You may be able to adjust the level of your deductibles to suit your needs. Your insurance agent can help you review or change your deductibles.
Coverage limits are another important factor to consider when covering wind damage. If your home insurance covers wind damage, it only pays up to the limit you chose when you purchased the coverage. Each type of coverage in your policy has its own coverage limit. Check your policies to see the coverage you have for your home and personal property, and contact your agent to discuss the change in coverage.
Although a windstorm is a risk covered by many home insurance policies, it is important to understand what your specific policy covers and what does not cover damage caused by the wind. Contact your representative for assistance with revising your policy or making adjustments to understand what your home insurance covers before the wind occurs.