As a homeowner, you never know when a natural disaster will strike. One of the most common natural disasters that can cause damage to your property is wind. Wind can cause severe damage to your home, including broken windows, damage to your roof, and even structural damage. The question is, does your property insurance cover wind damage? In this article, we will explore the ins and outs of wind damage and property insurance.

Does Property Insurance Cover Wind Damage?

The answer to this question is not as straightforward as you might think. Whether your property insurance covers wind damage or not depends on several factors, including the type of policy you have and the specific terms and conditions of your policy.

Homeowner's Insurance

If you have homeowner's insurance, wind damage is typically covered under your policy. Most homeowner's insurance policies cover damage caused by wind, including damage to your roof, windows, and siding. However, it's important to note that not all homeowner's insurance policies are created equal. Some policies may have exclusions or limitations on wind damage coverage, so it's important to review your policy carefully.

For example, some homeowner's insurance policies may only cover wind damage up to a certain amount, such as $10,000. If the damage to your home exceeds that amount, you may need to pay the difference out of pocket. Other policies may have exclusions for certain types of wind damage, such as damage caused by tornadoes or hurricanes. It's important to read the fine print of your policy to understand what is and isn't covered.

Flood Insurance

Flood insurance is a separate policy that covers damage caused by flooding. If your home is located in an area prone to flooding, you may want to consider purchasing flood insurance. However, it's important to note that flood insurance does not cover wind damage. If your home is damaged by both wind and flooding, you will need to file separate claims with your homeowner's insurance and flood insurance companies.

Windstorm Insurance

Some homeowners may also have windstorm insurance, which is a separate policy that specifically covers damage caused by windstorms. Windstorm insurance is typically required in areas that are prone to hurricanes and other severe weather events. If you live in an area that is prone to windstorms, you may want to consider purchasing windstorm insurance in addition to your homeowner's insurance policy.

What Does Wind Damage Insurance Cover?

If your property insurance policy covers wind damage, it's important to understand what is covered and what is not covered. Here are some things that are typically covered under wind damage insurance:

• Damage to your roof, including shingles and tiles
• Damage to your windows and doors
• Damage to your siding and gutters
• Damage to your personal property, including furniture and electronics

Here are some things that are typically not covered under wind damage insurance:

• Damage caused by flooding or water damage
• Damage caused by earthquakes or other natural disasters
• Damage caused by neglect or lack of maintenance

It's important to note that even if wind damage is covered under your policy, you may still be responsible for paying a deductible before your insurance kicks in. The amount of your deductible will vary depending on your policy and the specific terms and conditions of your coverage.

What Should You Do If Your Home is Damaged by Wind?

If your home is damaged by wind, there are several steps you should take to ensure that your insurance claim is processed smoothly:

1. Take photos of the damage: Before you start cleaning up, take photos of the damage to your home and personal property. These photos will be important evidence when you file your insurance claim.

2. Contact your insurance company: Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the damage. They will provide you with instructions on how to file a claim.

3. Document everything: Keep a record of all communication with your insurance company, including phone calls, emails, and letters. Keep receipts for any expenses related to the damage, such as temporary repairs or hotel stays.

4. Hire a contractor: If your home is severely damaged, you may need to hire a contractor to make repairs. Make sure to hire a licensed and insured contractor who has experience working with insurance companies.

5. Be patient: Insurance claims can take time to process, especially if there are a lot of claims in your area. Be patient and follow up with your insurance company regularly to ensure that your claim is being processed.

It's also important to take steps to prevent further damage to your home after a windstorm. For example, if your roof is damaged, cover the damaged area with a tarp to prevent water from entering your home. If your windows are broken, board them up to prevent further damage and to keep your home secure.

Conclusion

In conclusion, wind damage is typically covered under property insurance policies, but the specific terms and conditions of your policy will determine what is covered and what is not covered. If you live in an area that is prone to windstorms or hurricanes, you may want to consider purchasing windstorm insurance in addition to your homeowner's insurance policy. If your home is damaged by wind, make sure to take photos, contact your insurance company, document everything, hire a contractor, and be patient during the claims process. By following these steps, you can ensure that your insurance claim is processed smoothly and that your home is repaired as quickly as possible.