Peak storm season can be a challenging time for homeowners. With the sudden onset of severe weather, many find themselves facing the daunting task of navigating storm-related property damage, total property loss, and weather-related insurance claims. At Christensen Group Insurance, we understand the emotional and financial stress these situations can cause—and we want to help.

How do storm damage insurance claims work?

When severe weather hits, the aftermath can leave homeowners in a state of confusion and distress. From minor damages to catastrophic losses, understanding how to handle storm-related property damage insurance claims is crucial. Here’s an in-depth look at how these claims work and what homeowners should expect.

If this is your first time filing a claim, check out our how to file weather-related insurance claims section at the end for a step-by-step guide, or give one of our homeowner's insurance experts a call and we'd be happy to walk you through it.

What does insurance cover in a storm?

Homeowners insurance typically covers a wide range of storm-related damages, including wind, hail, and damage caused by fallen trees. However, coverage limitations and exclusions can vary by policy, so it’s essential to review your homeowner's insurance coverage to understand what is and isn't protected.

Commonly covered damages include:

• Wind and Hail Damage: Most policies cover damage caused by high winds and hail. This can include everything from roof damage to broken windows and siding. It’s important to document any damage immediately after the storm and notify your insurer promptly.
• Fallen Trees: Coverage often extends to damage caused by trees falling on insured structures. If a tree falls on your house or another insured structure, your policy should cover the cost of removal and repairs. However, if the tree falls but does not cause damage to an insured structure, coverage may be limited or non-existent.
• Water Damage: Coverage for water damage can be complex. While rain damage may be covered, flood damage typically requires a separate flood insurance policy. It’s crucial to differentiate between types of water damage and understand what your policy covers.

Does car insurance cover weather damage?

Yes, if you have comprehensive coverage, your auto insurance policy should cover weather-related damages, such as hail, flooding, or falling trees. Comprehensive coverage protects your vehicle from non-collision-related incidents, including natural disasters. It’s important to confirm the specifics of your coverage with your insurance provider to ensure you’re adequately protected.

Can insurance drop you after a hurricane?

While it’s unlikely that your insurance will be immediately canceled following a hurricane, multiple claims can affect your policy’s renewal. This highlights the importance of understanding your policy and being strategic about filing claims.

How long does it take to get a payout from homeowner's insurance?

Generally, it can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months. The timeline for receiving a payout varies depending on the complexity of the claim and the efficiency of the insurance company. Promptly providing all required documentation can help expedite the process (more on this later). Be sure to keep in constant communication with your insurance adjuster and follow up regularly to ensure your claim is progressing.

Thinking about filing a weather-related insurance claim? Here are 8 things to consider.

Navigating the process of whether or not to file a weather-related insurance claim can be intricate. Here are eight crucial considerations to help guide you through the process.

1. Know your deductible

Understanding your deductible is crucial. If the cost of the damage is close to or less than your deductible, it might not be worth filing a claim. Using insurance for minor damages can lead to increased premiums. For example, if your deductible is $1,000 and the damage amounts to $1,200, it might be more cost-effective to pay out of pocket rather than risk a premium increase.

2. Thoroughly document all storm damage

Properly documenting storm damage is essential for a successful claim. Take clear photos and videos of the damage, noting the date and time. This documentation will be vital during the claims process, helping to substantiate your claim and ensure you receive the appropriate compensation. Additionally, keep records of any temporary repairs you make to prevent further damage and save receipts for any expenses incurred.

3. Be aware of upcoming law changes

Staying informed about any imminent local and national law changes is crucial for managing your insurance effectively. For instance, in Minnesota, a new law effective August 1, 2024, will impact how storm damage claims are handled. Insurers may refuse to renew a homeowner’s policy if the insured had three or more covered losses over $10,000 due to lightning, wind, rain, or hail in the preceding five years. This law emphasizes the need for strategic claim filing and maintaining a good record with your insurance company.

4. Don't claim fallen/broken trees unless they damage an insured structure or vehicle

If a tree falls but does not damage an insured structure or vehicle, it typically isn’t covered under most policies. To learn more about coverage related to fallen trees, refer to our article on the topic. It’s important to understand what types of tree damage are covered and to have a plan for dealing with fallen trees that do not cause structural damage.

Was it a neighbor's tree that damaged your property?

You may be surprised to discover that it’s usually your homeowner's policy—not your neighbor’s—that will cover the cost of the damages. Check out our other article—If a tree falls, who pays?—for general guidelines on who pays what in various "Act of God" insurance claims situations.

5. Watch out for storm chaser scams after hail

After a hailstorm, be cautious of storm chasers—contractors who follow severe weather and offer quick (and often dubious) repairs. Storm chasers can often leave homeowners with subpar repairs and additional headaches, so it’s vital to be vigilant. Always consult a trusted local contractor for inspections—which are typically free—and avoid signing any agreements hastily. For more details, check out our guide on avoiding contractor scams following storm damage.

6. Understand the types of hurricane damage covered by your homeowner's policy

Most homeowner's insurance storm damage policies cover hurricane damage, including wind damage and damage from falling debris. However, coverage for flood damage often requires separate flood insurance. Review your policy thoroughly to understand what types of hurricane damage are covered. Knowing the specifics of your coverage can help you prepare and respond effectively when a hurricane strikes. To learn more, check out our guide on hurricanes and your homeowner's insurance policy.

Need help preparing for potential hurricane activity?

When faced with an impending or ongoing hurricane, your utmost concern should be the safety of yourself, your family, and your pets. Once that's secured, there are plenty of steps you can take to help mitigate potential losses. Consider these tips for preventing windstorm damage.

7. Make sure you're covered for water damage due to flooding

With the recent rise in natural disasters and extreme weather events, having the right coverage for flooding is more important than ever. Flooding can cause significant damage, but standard homeowner's insurance storm damage policies usually do not cover it. Review your policy with a trusted agent to determine your coverage needs and ensure you have the necessary flood insurance or endorsements for water damage.

What causes water damage and how do I prevent it?

Heavy rain and hurricanes are only two of many common reasons for water backups. To protect your home and its belongings from water seeping into unwanted places, follow these quick and actionable tips for preventing flooding.

8. Don't bother filing for spoiled food after a power outage

Filing a claim for spoiled food after a storm-induced power outage is typically not worthwhile due to the amount of the average deductible. Unless you have the world's largest and most well-stocked walk-in cooler, the cost of the spoiled food is unlikely to exceed your deductible amount. Instead, focus on larger, more significant damages when considering filing a claim to ensure your efforts and resources are used most effectively.

How to file weather-related insurance claims

If you made it through the previous section and you still want to file a storm damage insurance claim, here’s a detailed, step-by-step process to help you navigate through the claim process smoothly.

Note: This guide pertains to homeowner's insurance claims only. If a storm damaged your commercial property, refer to our other article, How to file a business insurance claim and what to expect along the way.

1. Ensure safety first

Before dealing with any insurance matters, your safety and the safety of others should be your top priority. Ensure that the property is safe to enter. If there are hazards such as structural damage, gas leaks, or electrical issues, contact professionals to address these concerns immediately.

2. Document the damage

Thorough documentation is key to a successful insurance claim. Follow these steps to ensure you capture all the necessary information:

• Take Photos and Videos: Use a camera or smartphone to document the damage from multiple angles. Capture photos of structural damage, interior and exterior damage, and any damaged personal belongings.
• Create a Detailed List: Make a list of all damaged items, including their estimated value. Include any repairs or replacements needed.
• Keep Receipts: Save any receipts for temporary repairs or expenses related to the storm damage.

3. Notify your insurance company

Promptly notify your insurance company about the damage. Many policies have specific time frames within which you must report damage.

• File a Claim: Contact your insurance provider via their designated claims hotline or online portal. Provide them with a summary of the damage and your documentation.
• Provide Information: Be prepared to provide your policy number, a detailed account of the damage, and any relevant photos or videos.

4. Review your policy and coverage

Understand the specifics of your homeowner's insurance storm damage coverage. Check the following:

• Coverage Limits: Review your policy to understand coverage limitations, including deductibles and exclusions.
• Policy Specifics: Determine whether your policy covers specific types of storm damage, such as wind, hail, or flood damage.

5. Meet with the insurance adjuster

An insurance adjuster will likely be assigned to your claim. They are responsible for assessing the damage and determining the amount of compensation.

• Prepare for the Visit: Make sure all documentation—including photos, videos, and lists of damaged items—is organized and readily available for the adjuster.
• Discuss Damage: Walk the adjuster through the property, pointing out all damage and discussing necessary repairs.

6. Get repair estimates

Obtain estimates from reputable contractors for the cost of repairs or replacements.

• Compare Estimates: Get multiple quotes to ensure you’re getting a fair price.
• Submit Estimates: Provide these estimates to your insurance company as part of your claim.

7. Keep records of communication

Maintain a detailed record of all communications with your insurance company and adjuster.

• Document Conversations: Record dates, names of representatives, and summaries of conversations.
• Keep Copies: Save copies of all written correspondence and claim documents.

8. Review the settlement offer

Once the insurance company reviews your claim, they will make a settlement offer based on their assessment and your policy coverage.

• Understand the Offer: Review the offer carefully to ensure it covers the extent of the damage and aligns with your policy.
• Negotiate (if Necessary): If the offer is lower than expected, you may negotiate or request a reevaluation.

9. Complete repairs

Once you agree to a settlement, proceed with repairs to restore your property. Ensure that all repairs are completed by licensed professionals and keep records of all expenses and work completed.

10. Follow up

After repairs are complete, follow up with your insurance company to ensure that all aspects of the claim are finalized and that you have received all applicable payments.

Let Christensen Group be your claims advocate

Dealing with storm-related property damage can be stressful, but knowing how to navigate the insurance claims process can make it more manageable. By understanding your policy, documenting damage thoroughly, and being aware of any legal changes, you can ensure a smoother claims experience from start to finish.

If you run into any issues filing your claim or something doesn’t seem quite right, the homeowner's insurance experts at Christensen Group are more than happy to clear up any confusion and help walk you through the process.

At Christensen Group, we understand that supporting you when it’s time to make a claim is just as much about setting honest expectations as it is about advocating for your coverage. We do both candidly so you can trust that you got the best possible outcome in an unfortunate situation.

To learn more, check out our online resource center or contact a storm damage home insurance expert and we’ll be happy to help answer any claims-related questions you may have.