Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Wind Damage?

Homeowners insurance provides financial protection for one of the most significant investments many individuals make. This coverage helps safeguard a dwelling and its contents from various unexpected events. Wind damage is a frequent concern for property owners across the country.

Standard Wind Damage Coverage

Most standard homeowners insurance policies include coverage for damage caused by wind and hail. This coverage extends to the dwelling itself, including the home’s structure like the roof, siding, and windows. Other structures on the property, such as detached garages or sheds, are also covered under these policies.

Personal property within the home, including furniture and appliances, is protected against wind-related damage. This broad coverage applies to direct physical damage resulting from various wind events, including tornadoes, hurricanes, and hailstorms. It helps homeowners repair or replace property affected by strong winds.

Policy Exclusions and Limitations

While wind damage is broadly covered, homeowners insurance policies contain specific exclusions and limitations. Damage caused by flooding, even if it results from wind-driven rain entering a compromised structure, is not covered by a standard policy and requires separate flood insurance. Policies also exclude damage from neglect, wear and tear, or pre-existing conditions.

Many policies incorporate special deductibles for wind or hurricane damage. A hurricane deductible, common in coastal regions, is a percentage of the home’s insured value. For example, a 2% hurricane deductible on a home insured for $300,000 means the homeowner pays the first $6,000 of damage. A wind/hail deductible, which can be a flat dollar amount or a percentage, applies specifically to wind or hail events. In certain high-risk areas, some policies may even exclude wind damage entirely, requiring a separate windstorm policy.

Preparing for a Wind Damage Claim

Before contacting an insurance company, homeowners should prepare for a wind damage claim. Document the damage by taking clear photos and videos from multiple angles, including wide shots and close-ups, ensuring they have date and time stamps. Create a detailed inventory of all damaged personal property, noting brand names, model numbers, and estimated values.

Homeowners should take temporary measures to prevent further damage, such as covering broken windows or placing tarps over damaged roofs. Keep all receipts for any materials purchased for these emergency repairs, as these costs might be reimbursable. Review your specific insurance policy to understand coverage limits, deductibles, and any unique requirements for filing a claim.

The Wind Damage Claim Process

Once preparatory steps are complete, notify the insurance company to begin the claim process. Provide the policy number, the date and time of the incident, and a detailed description of the damage.

An insurance adjuster will inspect the damage. Homeowners should be present during this visit to point out affected areas and provide documented evidence. Obtain detailed, written repair estimates from qualified contractors. The insurance company will review these estimates, apply any applicable deductibles, and issue payment for approved repairs, a process that can take 30 to 60 days.