No matter where you reside, your home remains susceptible to the impact of major storms. Unfortunately, the weather remains beyond your control. However, you do have the ability to safeguard yourself when the unexpected unfolds.
Most storm damage falls within the limit of homeowners insurance, though the cause of the damage occasionally influences the extent of coverage. Read on to learn more about storm damage insurance claims.
Standard homeowners insurance policies generally encompass damage arising from:
-Water and ice damage
-Lightning strikes and power surges
-Wind, hail, and fallen trees
Water and Ice Damage
Storms frequently introduce water or precipitation in various forms, all of which possess a potential for considerable destruction. Fortunately, home insurance accounts for rain, ice, snow, and hail damages.
Flood Damage
Standard homeowners insurance does not include flood-related damage, regardless of whether it is triggered by:
-Heavy rainfall
-Snowmelt
-Overflowing rivers or streams
-Hurricanes
-A clogged drainage system
Flood insurance can be obtained via the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or private flood insurance providers like Kin.
Wind and Hail Damage
Is wind damage a component of homeowners insurance coverage? Typically, the answer is affirmative. Hail damage is similarly included. Thus, if powerful winds dislodge shingles from your roof or propel a tree into your living room, your policy may include it. Likewise, you’re probably protected if wind-induced damage leads to water intrusion within your home.
Lightning Strikes and Power Surges
Damage from lightning strikes against your home or other structures on your premises, including fire, smoke, or power surge repercussions, falls within the scope of your home insurance. This coverage is more probable in instances of sudden and accidental damage. Gradual, long-term damage is typically excluded.
How Homeowners Insurance Covers Storm Damage
Homeowners insurance addresses storm damage through a variety of coverage types, offering protection in the following ways:
-Dwelling coverage: This coverage funds the repair and replacement of your damaged residence. In certain instances, it might even pay out the home’s value if it is totally damaged.
-Personal property coverage: This insurance finances the restoration of your personal belongings. From furniture to clothing and artwork to other possessions, it steps in to offset the cost of damage.
-Other structures coverage: Detached structures, such as sheds, driveways, and separate garages, are not unattended. This coverage restores such structures.
-Loss of use coverage: Should circumstances demand that you seek alternate living arrangements while your dwelling undergoes repair following a covered loss, this coverage steps in. It eases the financial burden of additional living expenses, covering costs like temporary housing, meals, and other expenditures in alignment with your lifestyle.
