You hunkered down in your basement and rode out the storm that blustered through your neighborhood. Now it’s time to take a peek outside to assess the damage. Fortunately, you and your neighbors have been spared from experiencing the worst of the storm, save that of a few small felled limbs. But what if your property sustains damage from the next storm that rolls into town? Will your homeowners insurance cover wind damage? Find out by reading our blog below!
Does My Insurance Policy Cover Wind Damage?
In short, yes – overall, the average homeowners insurance policy does cover wind damage. You can find it listed under many names, including damage brought on by windstorms, wind and hail, named storms, and more. So if your building sustained damage from a tornado or that aforementioned storm, your policy should offer you some protection.
However, there is an exception to the rule. In 19 hurricane-prone states (those along the Gulf and Atlantic coasts), wind insurance is a separate policy from homeowners insurance. Fortunately, the St. Louis region is not included in this list!
What Kind of Wind Damage Will My Policy Cover?
Without a doubt, wind storms can cause quite a lot of damage to several facets of your home. Straight-line winds can take out fences and siding and storms of all sorts can easily lift and carry your shingles (or more) away. Your homeowner’s policy will usually protect you and can help pay for repairing or replacing the damaged parts of your home, including:
- The roof and its shingles
- Windows
- Doors
- Siding
- Fences
The amount you may receive will vary depending on the type of coverage you have. Review your coverage with your agent before the winds begin howling!
What Should I Know About Anti-Concurrent Causation Clauses?
Many policies may include something called an anti-concurrent causation clause. Essentially, the clause states that if two disasters occur at the same time (like a flooding event and wind damage from a storm) and you’re only covered for one (wind damage, but not flooding), then your damages won’t be covered. This is why it’s important to discuss your policy with your provider.
How Should I File My Insurance Claim?
It’s always a good idea to survey your property for damage after a storm rushes through your neighborhood, but you’ll want to do so very carefully. Here are a few tips to keep in mind when you file your claim:
- Ensure that the area is safe. Keep a sharp eye out for any downed power lines or hidden debris in your path.
- Take photos and short videos of any damage you find.
- Note the date and time of when the damage occurred.
- Write a description of the damage you found.
- Shield your home from further damage by making temporary repairs, if needed.
How Can I Protect My Home From Future Wind Damage?
You don’t have to leave your home completely at Mother Nature’s mercy. Here are a few smart steps you can take today to protect your property from any possible damage in the future:
- Trim low-hanging branches that have extended over your roof.
- Remove any dead trees that are close to your home.
- Enlist the help of a roofing contractor to inspect your roof. Replace any loose or missing shingles.
- Ensure that your shed or garage is properly anchored to its foundation. While you’re at it, keep your large outdoor furniture and appliances from causing damage by bolting them down or storing them elsewhere when a storm is in the area.
Trust Ferguson Roofing
If you have missing shingles, call on Ferguson Roofing to help protect the interior of your home while your claim gets processed. We also offer a temporary repair program that will keep you dry. If your claim is approved, your insurance company will cover this service! Of course, once your claim is handled, rely on us to help fix the real problem: the storm damage. We can repair damaged roofs, siding, windows, gutters, soffit and fascia, and more. Call us today at (314) 521-6917 in Missouri or (618) 212-1912 in Illinois to learn more!