Storm Season Brings Homeowners Insurance Concerns

While the heavy snows and cold temperatures of winter have departed for another year, many parts of the country face turbulent in the spring and early summer months. Several states have already experienced floods, tornadoes and heavy thunderstorms. Hurricane season starts June 1, putting the Mid-Atlantic and Gulf Coast regions on high alert in the upcoming months. All of these weather conditions should raise concerns for homeowners insurance policy holders.

Check Your Homeowners Insurance Coverage

Many property owners may believe that their homeowners insurance policies will provide adequate coverage for such dangerous weather events. However, policy holders should understand that insurers can hesitate to pay even the most clear-cut of claims. Not all weather-related damages are included in standard homeowners insurance coverage. In fact, private insurers no longer offer flood insurance coverage. Homeowners must apply for federally-funded flood coverage through the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

Homeowners Insurance and Wind Damage

Homeowners in the Midwest and South often see violent thunderstorms and powerful tornadoes during the spring and summer months. Property owners in these regions should be aware that their homeowners insurance policies may not cover all types of wind damage. These property owners can purchase windstorm damage coverage as a supplement for their standard homeowners insurance policies. This supplemental coverage can come with high premiums and deductibles, so homeowners should research various policies before purchasing their coverage.

Renovations Affect Homeowners Insurance Policies

As the weather improves during the spring and summer months, many homeowners may consider starting renovation projects. These projects can increase both the visual appeal and financial return on the home. Property owners who are considering such projects should examine how the results will affect their homeowners insurance coverage. Owners may want to look at updating their homeowners insurance coverage to ensure that their work will be covered for weather-related damage.

Homeowners Insurance and Water Damage

While floods and high waters can inflict damage on a house from below, leaky roofs and torn shingles can bring in water damage from above. Water damage can lead to problems ranging from ruined drywall to toxic mildew. Property owners should examine their homeowners insurance policies to determine the extent of their coverage for water damage. Most homeowners insurance require policy holders to carry out routine maintenance, such as applying sealant to windows and replacing broken shingles, before the insurer will consider their claims.

Source: Weather Network

Get Answers For Your Homeowners Insurance Questions

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