Storm damage coverage

Storm damage coverage is a component of property insurance that pays for repair or replacement costs resulting from wind, hail, lightning, or heavy rain impacting homes or businesses. Insurers like State Farm and Allstate cover roof repairs after hailstorms if damage exceeds the deductible.

Most policies list “windstorm” as a covered peril, including tornadoes and hurricanes with clear definitions in policy language. Exclusions often apply to flood-related damage, so policyholders must purchase separate flood insurance through FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program.

Claims for storm damage require documentation such as photos and repair estimates within 60 days of the event according to standard industry practice. Insurers set higher deductibles–sometimes 1% to 5% of the dwelling limit–for hurricane or windstorm claims in states like Florida and Texas.

Coverage limits differ; HO-3 homeowners policies generally cap storm losses at the dwelling limit, for example $300,000. Roof exclusions exist for roofs older than 20 years, shown in guidelines by Nationwide and Travelers, as stated by YourInsuranceInfo.

Loss of use coverage pays hotel bills when storm repairs displace residents, common in major insurers’ policies. Actual cash value settlements reduce payouts for depreciation, while replacement cost coverage pays full rebuilding expenses minus deductible, noted in Farmers’ policy documents.

Storm endorsements for sewer backup or debris removal broaden standard storm damage protection if added at extra premium.