Winter Storms and Insurance
Posted on November 20, 2024 at 08:08 PM
“Bomb Cyclone” hits Pacific Northwest: What to know about storms and insurance
A powerful “Bomb Cyclone” storm system struck the Pacific Northwest this week, unleashing destructive winds that toppled trees onto roadways, homes and vehicles. Significant snowfall and blizzard-like conditions also made driving dangerous in the mountain passes.
Here’s what residents who experienced storm damage should know about what standard Home, Business and Auto Insurance policies cover:
- Damage from wind is typically covered under standard homeowners and business insurance policies.
- Removal of trees that have fallen on buildings is usually covered. Removal of trees that have fallen on your property without damaging a building may not be covered.
- Additional living expenses are typically provided to help pay for things such as increased or temporary housing costs, extra food costs and furniture rental if you are unable to occupy your primary residence due to storm damage.
- Policies typically cover costs for reasonable temporary repairs to prevent further damage to the building or contents (make sure to keep all repair receipts).
- Damage to your vehicle caused by wind, falling trees, flood and landslide is covered, but only if you have optional Collision or Comprehensive Coverage.
- Standard homeowners, renters and business insurance policies do not include coverage for flooding and landslides, but special coverage – called a “Difference in Conditions” policy – is available for purchase as a stand-alone policy, usually from a specialty lines broker.
- Flood Insurance can be purchased through an insurance agent or an insurer participating in the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Some private insurers offer coverage as well. Typically, there is a 30-day waiting period from the time a policy is purchased until you are covered.
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