Does Homeowner's Insurance Cover Wind Damage?

All over North Georgia, homeowners understand the challenges of severe weather. Storms can bring heavy rain, hail, and even damaging winds. Homeowner's insurance may cover hail damage, but coverage can vary based on your individual policy. It's essential to understand the specifics of your coverage. But what about wind damage? Does homeowner’s insurance cover wind damage to your home’s roof?

The good news is that homeowner's insurance policies typically cover wind damage! This can be a huge financial relief, as roof repairs or replacements can be quite expensive. Let's break down what's covered and some key points to remember:

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Understand Your Coverage

Review Your Policy: Many homeowners don’t educate themselves on what their policy covers until a storm hits. It’s important not to wait so that you can give yourself time to review your coverage! Look for specifics in the policy that pertain specifically to coverage of wind damage. This includes details like:

• Deductible: This is the amount you'll pay out of pocket before your insurance kicks in after experiencing wind damage.
• Coverage Limits: Be clear on if there are any limits on how much your insurance will cover for repairs or replacements as a result of wind damage to your roof.
• Windstorm Exclusions: In some rare cases, policies may have exclusions for specific wind events, like hurricanes.

A thorough review of your homeowner's insurance policy is essential for determining if it provides the appropriate level of coverage for your property. Don't just skim your homeowner's insurance! Take a closer look and determine if it makes sense for your current financial situation. Ask yourself the question, “How much risk am I comfortable taking on?” 

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The Basics of Wind Damage Coverage

What is covered?

• Shingle Damage: High winds can rip off shingles, exposing your roof's underlayment and potentially leading to leaks. Wind damage coverage should help pay for repairs or replacement of damaged shingles.
• Structural Damage: Strong winds can cause more significant damage than missing shingles. If the wind damages your roof structure itself, your insurance should cover repairs to ensure your roof remains secure.

What's not covered?

• Neglect: If your roof was already in poor condition, and wind exposes existing problems, repairs are unlikely to be covered.
• Flooding: While wind-driven rain might be covered, flooding from overflowing rivers or storm surges typically requires separate flood insurance.
• Earthquakes: Earthquake damage usually requires a separate earthquake insurance policy.

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What You Can Do?

Before a Storm

• Perform Regular Roof Maintenance: It’s impossible to prevent all wind damage. Although, a well-maintained roof is less susceptible to wind damage. Schedule regular inspections with your roofing contractor and have necessary repairs performed.
  • If you are searching for a roofing contractor, read our guide for Georgia Homeowners on How To Vet A Qualified Roofing Contractor In Georgia
• Trim Trees: Overhanging branches pose a significant threat to your roof during windstorms. Regularly trim tree branches around your house to minimize the risk of damage from trees caused by high winds.
• Document Your Roof: Take clear photos and videos of your roof in good condition. This documentation can be helpful when it comes time to file a claim.

After a Storm:

• Call a roofing expert: Don't climb onto your roof to assess damage yourself. Be safe and leave roof inspections to qualified professionals who are equipped to perform a thorough documentation of your roof.
• Contact Your Insurance Company: As soon as possible after a storm, contact your insurance company to report any roof damage.
• Keep Records: Maintain detailed records of all communication with your insurance company, estimates from roofers, and receipts for any repairs already completed.

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Conclusions

By understanding your wind damage coverage and taking preventative measures, you can weather the storm with more peace of mind. If you have questions about coverage and your Insurance Policy, contact your Insurance Agent. 

The team at Douglas Construction is here to help! If you’ve experienced wind damage to your roof, call us for a free no obligation roof inspection. Our team has extensive experience with the insurance process. With our 360º property inspection, we perform a thorough documentation of your roof. We advocate on your behalf for a fair and successful claim to restore your largest investment back to pre-loss conditions.

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