Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Storm Damage Repairs?

When a storm damages your home, knowing whether your insurance will cover the repairs can save you significant stress and financial strain. 

Standard homeowners insurance policies typically cover many types of storm damage including wind, hail, lightning, and fallen trees, but exclude flood and earthquake damage which require separate policies. 

Understanding these distinctions is crucial before disaster strikes.

Every policy has specific terms, limitations, and deductibles that can affect your coverage. For instance, some insurers in high-risk areas may have separate, higher deductibles for hurricane and tornado damage. This is why reviewing your policy details is essential to ensure you’re adequately protected against the weather events common in your region.

After storm damage occurs, documenting everything thoroughly and contacting your insurance company promptly improves your chances of a successful claim. Many homeowners discover coverage gaps only after a storm has already damaged their property, when it’s too late to adjust their protection.

Key Takeaways

• Homeowners insurance generally covers wind, hail and lightning damage but requires separate policies for floods and earthquakes.
• Your policy may include specific deductibles and exclusions for certain types of storms that affect your coverage limits.
• Proper documentation, timely reporting, and professional inspections significantly improve your chances of successful storm damage claims.

Understanding Homeowners Insurance & Storm Damage Coverage

Most standard homeowners insurance policies include coverage for storm damage, but understanding exactly what’s protected can be complex. Your policy typically covers damage from wind, hail, fallen trees, and other storm-related incidents that affect your home’s structure.

Not all storm damage receives equal coverage. Damage from high winds and hail is generally covered under standard policies, while flooding often requires separate insurance. Hurricane and tornado damage might have separate deductibles in some regions.

Common Storm Damage Covered by Insurance:

• Wind damage to roofing and siding
• Hail damage to exterior surfaces
• Fallen trees that damage your home
• Water damage from rain (if caused by storm-created openings)

When your roof sustains storm damage, prompt professional roof repairs are essential to prevent further deterioration. Acting quickly can help minimize secondary damage to your home’s interior.

Your insurance claim process typically begins with documenting the damage. Take photos, make detailed notes, and contact your insurance provider as soon as possible after the storm.

Tips for Successful Storm Damage Claims:

1. Document all damage thoroughly
2. File claims promptly
3. Understand your deductible
4. Keep receipts for emergency repairs

Review your policy annually to ensure you have adequate coverage for your region’s common weather threats. Different areas face varying storm risks, and your coverage should reflect your specific location’s needs.

Types Of Storm Damage Typically Covered By Insurance

Most standard homeowners insurance policies provide coverage for a variety of storm-related damages, though specific coverage depends on your policy details and the nature of the damage. Understanding what’s typically covered can help you prepare for severe weather events and know when to file a claim.

Wind Damage

Wind is one of the most common causes of storm damage to homes. Standard homeowners insurance policies typically cover wind damage from storms, including hurricanes, tornadoes, and severe thunderstorms. This coverage extends to:

• Damaged or missing roof shingles
• Broken windows
• Damaged siding
• Structural damage from high winds

When wind damages your home, it’s important to document everything and contact your insurance company promptly. Taking immediate action can prevent further damage to your property.

If you notice any signs of wind damage, scheduling a free roof inspection with a professional restoration company can help identify issues that might not be visible from the ground. In Ohio and Kansas City, severe windstorms can cause significant roof damage that requires professional assessment.

Hail Damage

Hail damage is specifically covered by most standard homeowners insurance policies. This destructive form of precipitation can cause:

• Dented or cracked roof shingles
• Damaged gutters and downspouts
• Broken windows and skylights
• Dents in siding and exterior surfaces

Unlike some damage that’s immediately obvious, hail damage to roofing materials can be subtle yet serious. Small impacts can compromise your roof’s integrity, leading to leaks and further damage months later.

Insurance companies recognize the potential long-term effects of hail damage. That’s why they typically allow claims even if the damage isn’t causing immediate problems. However, most policies have a limited timeframe for filing hail damage claims.

After a hailstorm, having your roof professionally inspected can reveal damage you might miss. Documentation of the damage with clear photos and measurements can significantly strengthen your insurance claim.

Fallen Trees And Debris Impact

When storms cause trees or large branches to fall on your home, homeowners insurance generally covers the damage to your structure. Coverage typically includes:

• Removal of the fallen tree from your home
• Repairs to damaged parts of your house
• Temporary accommodations if your home is uninhabitable
• Damage to other structures like fences or detached garages

Your policy may also cover debris removal costs up to a certain limit. This can be crucial after severe storms when cleaning up fallen trees and branches becomes necessary.

It’s important to note that if a tree falls without causing damage to a covered structure, your insurance might not pay for its removal. Regular tree maintenance can help prevent damage during storms.

For emergency situations involving fallen trees on your property, having access to quick response services is essential to prevent additional damage to your home.

Water Damage & Leaks

Water damage from storms is covered by homeowners insurance only in specific circumstances. Generally, coverage applies when water damage results from:

• Rain entering through storm-created openings in your roof or walls
• Ice dams forming on your roof
• Water damage from broken pipes due to freezing

However, standard policies typically do not cover flooding from rising water, regardless of the cause. For this protection, you need separate flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program or private insurers.

Storm-related water damage claims require careful documentation. Take photos of all affected areas and create a detailed inventory of damaged items. Keep samples of damaged materials when possible.

Acting quickly after discovering water damage is crucial. Professional water extraction and drying services can prevent mold growth and structural issues that might not be covered if they develop later due to unaddressed initial damage.

When Does Insurance Not Cover Roof Storm Damage?

While homeowners insurance typically covers storm damage to your roof, there are important limitations and exceptions you should know about before filing a claim. Understanding these exceptions can save you time and prevent frustration when dealing with your insurance company.

Neglect & Pre-Existing Damage

Insurance companies expect you to maintain your roof properly. If your roof was already damaged or in poor condition before the storm, your claim may be denied. Regular roof inspections are essential to document your roof’s condition.

If you’ve neglected necessary maintenance that could have prevented the damage, insurers can refuse coverage. For example, if your roof had loose shingles that you failed to repair before a storm, the resulting water damage might not be covered.

Documentation is your best defense. Take photos of your roof periodically, especially after making repairs. If you’re unsure about your roof’s condition, schedule a free roof inspection with qualified professionals who can identify potential issues before they lead to claim denials.

Wear And Tear Vs. Sudden Damage

Insurance companies make a critical distinction between normal deterioration and sudden storm damage. Normal aging and wear and tear are not covered by standard homeowners policies. This includes:

• Gradual deterioration of roofing materials
• Shingles that have reached the end of their lifespan
• Moss or algae damage that developed over time
• Granule loss from aging shingles

Insurance adjusters look for specific patterns of damage that indicate storm impact rather than age-related issues. Fresh damage from hail or wind has distinctive characteristics that trained professionals can identify.

Having an experienced contractor present during insurance adjustments can help ensure legitimate storm damage isn’t incorrectly classified as wear and tear. Professional documentation of the damage pattern can make a significant difference in claim approval.

Policy Exclusions

Your policy may contain specific exclusions that limit coverage for certain types of storm damage. Common exclusions include:

• Flood damage: Standard homeowners policies don’t cover flooding, including roof leaks caused by rising water. You need separate flood insurance for this protection.

• Certain wind events: Some policies in high-risk areas have separate wind deductibles or exclude hurricane damage altogether.

• Cosmetic damage: Many policies exclude “cosmetic” damage that doesn’t affect functionality.

Policy limits can also restrict how much you’ll receive for repairs. Your policy may provide actual cash value rather than replacement cost for older roofs.

Review your policy carefully and consider making temporary repairs to prevent further damage while waiting for your claim to be processed. This demonstrates your commitment to minimizing losses, which insurers appreciate.

Common Mistakes Homeowners Make That Lead To Claim Denials

Failing to understand your insurance coverage can quickly derail your storm damage claim. Many homeowners assume their policy covers all types of storm damage, only to discover certain events or damages are excluded.

Inadequate documentation is another critical error. Without proper photos, videos, and written records of the damage, insurance companies may question the extent of the storm’s impact or deny your claim altogether.

Making permanent repairs before an adjuster inspects the damage can result in claim denial. While temporary measures to prevent further damage are encouraged, complete repairs should wait until after the official assessment.

Delaying your claim filing is a serious mistake. Most insurance policies have strict time limits for reporting damage, and waiting too long can invalidate your claim entirely.

Failing to mitigate further damage after a storm can lead to denial. You’re expected to take reasonable steps to prevent additional harm, such as covering a damaged roof with a tarp during rain.

Poor maintenance of your property can also cause problems. Insurance companies may deny claims if they determine the damage resulted from neglect rather than the storm itself.

Accepting the first settlement offer without review is rarely in your best interest. Insurance adjusters may undervalue the true cost of quality repairs that will restore your home properly.

A free roof inspection from a qualified professional can help you avoid these pitfalls and strengthen your claim. NextGen Restoration offers these inspections throughout Ohio and Kansas City, providing expert documentation and guidance through the entire claims process.

How To File A Storm Damage Insurance Claim (Step-By-Step)

Filing an insurance claim after storm damage requires careful documentation and following specific procedures to maximize your chances of fair compensation. The process involves several critical stages from initial assessment to potential negotiation.

Assess And Document Damage

Begin by thoroughly documenting all storm damage to your property as soon as it’s safe to do so. Take clear photos and videos of all affected areas, focusing on structural damage, water intrusion, and damaged personal belongings.

Make detailed notes about when the storm occurred and what specific damage resulted. This documentation serves as crucial evidence for your claim.

Create an inventory list of damaged items with estimated values and approximate replacement costs. Include any receipts or purchase information you have available.

Don’t dispose of damaged items until the insurance adjuster has completed their inspection. These physical items provide additional proof of your loss.

Consider documenting storm damage with date-stamped photos before making any temporary repairs to prevent further damage.

Contact Your Insurance Provider

Report the damage to your insurance company as soon as possible. Most policies have specific timeframes for reporting claims, so prompt notification is essential.

Ask your insurance agent about your policy’s specific coverage for storm damage and what documentation they require. Request clarification on your deductible amount and how it applies to your situation.

Keep detailed records of all communications with your insurance company, including:

• Names of representatives you speak with
• Dates and times of calls
• Notes about what was discussed
• Claim number assigned to your case

Request written confirmation of your claim filing and ask about the expected timeline for processing. Insurance companies typically assign an adjuster within 24-48 hours.

Schedule A Professional Roof Inspection

Hire a qualified roofing contractor to perform a comprehensive inspection of storm damage. They can identify issues that might not be visible to untrained eyes.

Request a detailed written report from the contractor that includes:

• Specific damage locations
• Recommended repairs
• Cost estimates for all work
• Professional opinion on cause of damage

Choose contractors with experience handling insurance claims for storm damage. Their expertise can be invaluable during the claims process.

Many roofing professionals offer free inspections following storms. Take advantage of these services to get an expert assessment without upfront costs.

Ask the contractor if they can be present during the insurance adjuster’s inspection to point out damage they’ve identified.

Get An Adjuster’s Inspection

The insurance adjuster’s inspection is a critical step in the claims process. Be present during this inspection to point out all documented damage.

Provide the adjuster with copies of your documentation, including photos, videos, and your professional roof inspection report. This helps ensure nothing is overlooked.

Take notes during the adjuster’s inspection and ask questions about anything that seems unclear. Understanding their assessment process can help you advocate for yourself.

Don’t be afraid to respectfully point out damage the adjuster might miss. Their inspection time may be limited, so your guidance is important.

Request a copy of the adjuster’s report and review it carefully for accuracy. Compare it with your own documentation and your contractor’s findings.

Review Your Policy & Estimate

Carefully review the settlement offer from your insurance company against your policy terms. Pay special attention to coverage limits, exclusions, and depreciation calculations.

Compare the insurance estimate with your contractor’s estimate. Significant discrepancies may indicate the need for further negotiation.

Understand the difference between actual cash value (ACV) and replacement cost value (RCV) in your policy. This distinction significantly impacts your payout amount.

Check if your policy includes code compliance upgrades, which cover additional costs to meet current building codes during repairs.

Don’t rush to accept the first offer if it seems insufficient. You have the right to question the assessment and request justification for the proposed settlement.

Negotiating Your Claim If Denied Or Underpaid

If your claim is denied or underpaid, request a written explanation detailing the reasons. This document is essential for challenging the decision.

Submit additional documentation to support your case, including more detailed contractor estimates, engineering reports, or supplemental photo evidence.

Consider requesting a second adjuster inspection if you believe the initial assessment was incomplete or inaccurate. Sometimes a fresh perspective yields different results.

Know your appeal rights within your insurance company and with your state’s insurance commissioner. Most states have a formal process for disputing claim decisions.

For complex disputes, consulting with a public adjuster or attorney specializing in insurance claims may be worthwhile. These professionals can navigate complicated negotiations on your behalf.

 

How We Help You Through the Insurance Process

At NextGen Restoration, we advocate for you every step of the way to ensure you get the coverage you deserve.

We start with a thorough inspection to document all storm damage, providing the crucial evidence needed for your claim. 

Our team works directly with your insurance adjuster, presenting the facts and handling technical details to maximize your claim approval. We also take care of the paperwork and deadlines, ensuring everything is filed correctly and on time.

Insurance estimates can fall short, but we provide accurate, industry-standard assessments to reflect the true cost of restoring your home. Throughout the process, we keep you updated so you’re never left in the dark.

Frequently Asked Questions

Storm damage claims can be complex to navigate with several important aspects to understand about coverage limits, documentation requirements, and specific types of damage. Insurance policies have distinct provisions for different types of storm damage that every homeowner should know.

Are tree removal costs covered by homeowners insurance after a storm?

Most homeowners insurance policies cover tree removal costs when the tree falls due to covered perils like wind, lightning, or weight of ice and snow. Coverage typically applies when a tree damages your home or other insured structures on your property.

Insurance generally provides between $500 to $1,000 for tree removal, regardless of how many trees fell. If a tree falls without damaging any structures, some policies may still provide coverage, though limits are often lower.

For Ohio and Kansas City homeowners, NextGen Restoration can help assess tree damage to your roof and coordinate with your insurance company. Our team provides free inspections to document all storm-related damage before you file your claim.

What type of wind damage to roofs is typically included in homeowners insurance policies?

Wind damage to roofs is typically covered under standard homeowners insurance policies, including damage from high winds, tornadoes, and hurricanes. This coverage extends to missing shingles, damaged flashing, and structural damage to the roof.

Insurance will generally cover repair or replacement costs after you’ve paid your deductible. Some policies in high-risk areas may have separate, higher deductibles specifically for wind or hurricane damage.

NextGen Restoration specializes in identifying all forms of wind damage that qualify for insurance coverage. Our trained professionals in Ohio and Kansas City provide thorough documentation that helps maximize your claim approval.

How do insurance policies handle storm-related damage to cars?

Storm damage to vehicles is not covered by homeowners insurance. Instead, you’ll need comprehensive auto insurance to cover storm-related vehicle damage.

If a tree from your property falls on a neighbor’s car during a storm, their auto insurance would be responsible for covering the damage. Likewise, if your neighbor’s tree falls on your car, your comprehensive auto policy would handle the claim.

For situations where storms cause both home and vehicle damage, NextGen Restoration can help you understand which policies apply. We coordinate with multiple insurance companies to ensure all damage is properly documented and addressed.

How are wind-damaged fences treated under home insurance coverage?

Fences damaged by windstorms are typically covered under the “other structures” portion of your homeowners insurance policy. This coverage usually amounts to about 10% of your dwelling coverage limit.

Insurance will pay to repair or replace your fence after storm damage, minus your deductible. However, wear and tear or pre-existing damage to your fence will not be covered.

NextGen Restoration can help assess fence damage alongside roof and home damage following severe storms. Our comprehensive documentation helps ensure all valid storm damage is included in your insurance claim.

Which aspects of storm damage are generally covered by homeowners insurance?

Standard homeowners insurance typically covers damage from wind, hail, lightning, and falling objects during storms. This includes structural damage to your roof, siding, windows, and interior water damage resulting from these events.

However, flood damage is explicitly excluded from standard policies and requires separate flood insurance. Some policies also have limitations for hurricane coverage in coastal areas.

NextGen Restoration provides free roof inspections for Ohio and Kansas City homeowners after storms to identify all covered damage. Our expertise helps you understand what’s covered before filing your claim.

Can you explain the process for filing a claim for storm damage with insurance companies?

The storm damage claim process begins with documenting the damage as soon as it’s safe to do so. Take photos and videos of all affected areas before making temporary repairs to prevent further damage.

Contact your insurance company promptly to report the damage. They’ll assign an adjuster who will inspect your property, review your documentation, and determine coverage based on your policy terms.

NextGen Restoration offers emergency services and free inspections to Ohio and Kansas City homeowners following storms. Our team can be on-site quickly to document damage, make emergency repairs, and help you navigate the claims process with your insurance company for a smoother experience.