Spring has finally arrived, bringing warmer temperatures and beautiful blooms—and, unfortunately, the threat of severe weather. Across the country, homeowners face risks from storms, tornadoes, heavy rains, and hail. Making sure your homeowner insurance is up-to-date is crucial for protecting your home and finances.
The expert independent insurance agents at Pepper, Johnstone & Company are here to answer your questions about storm damage coverage. Here’s how to check if you’re covered when spring storms strike.
Does Homeowner Insurance Cover Storm Damage? Your Questions Answered
It’s a common misconception that standard homeowner insurance policies automatically cover all storm-related damages. While these policies typically cover most storm damage— such as lightning strikes, fire caused by lightning, and strong wind-related damages (like shingles blown off your roof)—there may be coverage limitations that you need to be aware of.
Understanding your dwelling coverage and personal property coverage limits is essential to avoid unexpected out-of-pocket costs after a storm.
Wind and Hail Insurance: Are You Fully Protected?
Standard home insurance policies typically include coverage for wind and hail, but in storm-prone areas, you might have a separate, percentage-based insurance deductible specifically for these damages. That’s why it’s so essential to check your policy to know exactly what your coverage includes.
Some insurers offer specialized wind and hail insurance riders, which provide additional protection if your home sustains significant damage.
💡What is a rider in insurance?
An insurance rider is an add-on or amendment to your existing policy that provides additional coverage or modifies your current policy terms. Riders help address specific needs or coverage gaps not included in standard policies.
For example, adding a wind and hail insurance rider to your homeowner policy can offer more comprehensive protection against damage caused by severe storms. Riders typically involve additional costs but offer valuable protection tailored to your specific risks.
Does Homeowner Insurance Cover Tornado Damage?
Tornadoes can cause catastrophic damage to your home. The good news is tornado damage usually falls under wind-related coverage in standard policies as a covered peril. However, it’s wise to verify your policy limits and exclusions with your insurance broker to avoid any unexpected gaps in coverage.
💡Does Car Insurance Cover Tornado Damage?
Spring storms don’t just threaten your home; your vehicle is also at risk. Car insurance can cover tornado damage, but only if comprehensive coverage is part of your auto policy. Comprehensive coverage is optional but essential for protecting your vehicle against damages from events outside of normal driving, including natural disasters like tornadoes.
Comprehensive coverage typically covers damages like:
Broken windows and windshields
Dents from debris or hail
Damage from fallen trees or power lines
Water damage from accompanying floods
Damage from your car being lifted or moved by the storm
Does Homeowner Insurance Cover Tree Removal After Storm?
When storms roll through, it's common to see trees and branches come down, creating hazards and causing property damage. Typically, your homeowner insurance covers tree removal if a fallen tree directly damages your house, garage, or blocks your driveway. However, if a tree simply falls without causing any immediate structural damage to a covered structure or safety issue, removal expenses usually aren't covered.
As always, check your specific policy details or talk to your agent for clarity.
Common Coverage Gaps You Should Know About
Storm damage can uncover a lot of structural vulnerabilities in and around your home. And it can also highlight significant coverage gaps. Here are some of the most common gaps that take homeowners by surprise.
Flood Damage
Standard homeowner insurance policies typically don’t cover flood damage. This is one of the most significant gaps in coverage, as flooding can cause extensive and costly damage.
Homeowners in flood-prone areas should consider purchasing separate flood insurance from the National Flood Insurance Program. Of course, you can still purchase flood insurance even if you are not in a flood zone—surprise weather events can strike anywhere.
Earthquake Damage
Earthquakes are generally excluded from standard homeowner policies. Separate earthquake insurance can protect homes in seismic zones.
Wind Damage Exclusions
While most policies cover wind damage, some may have specific exclusions or limitations:
Some policies might exclude or reduce coverage for wind damage.
There may be separate, higher deductibles for windstorm or hail damage.
In coastal areas, separate windstorm insurance might be required.
Maintenance-Related Issues
Insurance companies may deny claims if damages stem from poor maintenance:
If a tree falls on your home during a storm, it might not be covered if the tree wasn't properly maintained before the event.
Insurers may deny claims for roof leaks during storms if the roof is old and poorly maintained.
Rotting wood (i.e., subflooring, wood siding, etc.) that has occurred over many months or years is not covered, as this is a maintenance-related matter.
Structures on Your Property
Coverage for detached structures, such as sheds or garages, might be limited or require additional coverage.
Other Exclusions
Earth movements such as landslides and mudflows are often excluded.
Some policies may have limitations on coverage for power surges or outages caused by storms.
Filing a Claim and Understanding the Claims Process
If your property experiences storm-related damage, knowing how to file a claim can streamline the claims process and reduce stress.
Contact your insurance agent promptly after the storm.
Document the damage thoroughly with photographs and detailed notes.
Your insurance company will assign an adjuster to assess the damage, confirm whether the incident is a covered peril, and determine how your policy will cover the damages.
Now Is the Perfect Time for a Coverage Review
Your peace of mind during storm season starts with the right insurance protection. Reach out to Pepper, Johnstone & Company today to review your current coverage, identify any potential gaps, and build a policy that works for you.
We’ve been helping homeowners safeguard what matters most for over 50 years. Let’s make sure your home insurance is ready to protect you from spring’s severe weather threats.
Get Expert Advice and the Right Coverage from our Independent Insurance Agents
As your leading insurance brokerage, Pepper, Johnstone & Company represents numerous leading carriers to get you the exact coverage you need. Unlike captive agencies (like State Farm or Geico), we work directly for you, providing comprehensive coverage tailored specifically to your needs. Get a quote online or contact us directly at (256) 232-7818.