Windstorms can topple trees, damage homes and vehicles and leave thousands of people without power.

As cleanup crews begin removing downed trees and repairing power lines, it’s also important for homeowners, renters and business owners to take action and thoroughly inspect their property and vehicles for wind damage.

Homeowners Insurance and Business Insurance policies cover wind damage to the structure of your home or business and your belongings. If you have Renters Insurance, only damage to your personal possessions is covered. Damage to your vehicle caused by falling trees or other wind-driven objects is insured if you have purchased optional Comprehensive Coverage in your Auto Policy.

Following are some coverage facts about wind damage:

What’s typically covered?

Your Home

·         Damage to your home from wind and falling trees.

·         Removal of trees that have fallen on buildings.

·         Damaged personal property (both home and renters) inside a damaged building.

·         If you can’t occupy your primary residence due to storm damage, additional living expenses such as increased housing costs, extra food costs, furniture rental, and storage fees.

·         Costs for reasonable temporary repairs to prevent further damage to the building or contents.

Your Vehicle

·         Damage caused by wind and falling trees – if you purchased optional Comprehensive Coverage.

What’s typically not covered?

Your Home

·         Removal of trees that have fallen in your yard without damaging a building.

·         Upgrades that weren’t part of your home before the storm.

Your Vehicle

·         Damage to your vehicle if you don’t have Comprehensive Coverage.

What to do if your home or vehicle has been damaged:

·         Document damage and take pictures.

·         If safe to do so, make temporary repairs to prevent further loss from rain or wind. Save receipts for reimbursement.

·         If your home or property is damaged by a windstorm, contact your insurance agent or company to file a claim immediately. Filing a claim quickly enables your insurance company to get to you sooner.

·         Use only licensed, reputable building contractors and be sure they get the proper building permits.

What to avoid if your home or vehicle has been damaged:

·         Avoid contractors who ask for a large deposit up front or bids that are remarkably low. This may indicate a willingness to cut corners or leave work unfinished.

·         Don’t pay a lot for temporary repairs unless authorized by your insurance adjuster. You could get stuck with the bill if the repairs are deemed excessive.

·         Don’t discard anything that is damaged until it has been examined by your adjuster. You could miss out on coverage for that item.

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