Homeowners insurance typically covers wind damage, but in some cases exclusions may apply. Here are some things to consider when it comes to wind damage and homeowners insurance.
When is Wind Damage Covered by Homeowners Insurance?
Windstorms are among the perils generally covered by homeowners insurance. Some homeowners policies exclude coverage for wind damage, though. It’s a good idea to read your policy to learn whether it includes coverage for wind damage.
If your homeowners insurance policy includes coverage for windstorms, two types of protection may help you after a windstorm damages your home:
- Dwelling coverage, which helps protect a home’s structure, may help pay for repairs if wind damages your home’s roof, siding or windows, for example.
- Personal property coverage may help pay to replace the contents of your home if they are damaged by wind — or by rain, snow, sleet, sand or dust that the wind drives inside after damaging your home’s structure.
Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Tornado or Hurricane Damage?
Homeowners insurance usually helps cover windstorm damage caused by tornadoes and hurricanes.
However, if your policy excludes windstorm damage, it probably will not help cover the cost of repairs if your home is damaged by a tornado or hurricane. Be sure to read your policy to understand the coverage it provides.
Also, keep in mind that homeowners insurance policies usually do not cover flood. So, even if your homeowners policy does cover windstorm damage caused by a tornado or hurricane, it likely will not cover the damage if floodwater or rising water accompanies the storm. Flood insurance is a separate policy that is sold through the National Flood Insurance Program.
Deductibles and Coverage Limits for Wind Damage
If your homeowners insurance policy does cover wind damage, a deductible will usually apply. Your deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket before your insurance kicks in to help pay for a covered claim. Some homeowners insurance policies have specific deductibles for damage caused by windstorms and hail, or by tropical cyclones or hurricanes. Your deductibles are listed in your homeowners insurance policy. You may be able to adjust the amount of your deductibles to fit your needs. Your insurance agent can help you review or change your deductibles.
Coverage limits are another important factor to consider when it comes to coverage for wind damage. If your homeowners insurance policy covers wind damage, it will only pay up to the limit you chose when you purchased coverage. Each type of coverage in your policy has its own coverage limit. Review your policy to brush up on how much coverage you have in place for your dwelling and personal property, and contact your agent if you want to discuss changing the amount of coverage you have in place.
While a windstorm is a peril that is covered by many homeowners insurance policies, it’s important to understand what your specific policy does and does not cover when it comes to wind damage. Contact your agent for help reviewing your policy or to make adjustments so that you understand what your homeowners insurance policy covers before wind damage occurs.