Does Your Home Insurance Cover Weather and Water Damage?

 

Consider that in 2019, natural disasters caused an estimated $71 billion in insured losses worldwide according to Aon's Impact Forecasting, a group that analyzes catastrophe risks. All but $265 million of that year’s insurance losses were due to weather events. As weather patterns change, bringing harsh conditions with them, claims for weather-related damage are likely to increase.

 

 

Insurance for Weather Damage

When wild weather hits your home, you may be able to make a claim. Your ability to do so depends on the type of policy you have and the perils it covers or excludes. But in the case of covered damage, compensation from your insurance company will help you cover your losses, so you can repair your home and move on.

 

Types of Weather Damage That May Be Covered

The most common types of weather-related damage include:

• Hail damage

• Roof damage

• Water damage

• Wind damage

• Sewer back-up

• Frozen pipes

• Fallen trees

• Ice dams

• Power failure

• Flooding

Flood damage is not usually covered by most home insurance companies. However, you may be able to buy flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program. You can find out more about national flood insurance on the FEMA website.

 

Weather-Related Liability

Fortunately, your home insurance covers liability as well. Any time an accident occurs on your property, the first step you should take is to contact your insurance company, even if you think it's not your fault. The insurance company can then get involved to help you and give advice on the next steps. They may help with legal defense costs if needed, as well.

 

 

Make Weather-Related Claims as Soon as Possible

If you notice weather-related damage to your home, call your insurance company right away. Most insurance companies have 24-hour phone numbers you can call in an emergency. Insurance does not cover gradual damage, so leaving things like leaking water until later could cost you a lot of money. 

 

Keep Up-To-Date on Your Coverage

As weather patterns change, so does the risk to your home. You could find yourself subject to extensive damage due to stronger storms or fluctuating temperatures.

 

You can read more here.

 

All coops and condos carry building insurance but you must also have additional individual homeowners insurance, and if you are in a flood zone in NYC, additional flood insurance. Protecting your home from the unexpected is crucial.