The short answer
Wind and Hail Damage
Wind and hail are common storm perils. Most standard homeowners policies cover damage from wind, including tornados and severe thunderstorms. That includes broken windows, damaged roofs, and fallen trees that hit your home.
If a tree falls on your house during a storm, the cost to remove it and repair the structure is usually covered. However, if the tree falls without touching your home, coverage for removal may be limited. Check your policy for specific limits and deductibles that apply.
- Roof shingles torn off by wind
- Broken windows from hail or debris
- Fallen tree branches damaging siding
- Damage to detached structures like a garage
- Water damage from rain entering through a wind-damaged roof
Flood Damage Exclusions
Standard homeowners policies do not cover flood damage. Flooding from heavy rain, overflowing rivers, or storm surge requires separate flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program or a private insurer. Flood risk varies by location, so check your local flood maps and consider your property's history.
Even if your home has never flooded, flood insurance may be worth considering. Flood damage is often costly to repair, and without coverage, you would pay for repairs yourself. Check your policy to see what is defined as a flood versus other water damage.
Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
Water Damage from Rain
Water damage from rain entering your home is covered only if the roof or windows were damaged by wind first. If wind creates an opening and rain gets in, the resulting water damage is typically covered. But if rain seeps through a worn roof or a cracked window frame, coverage may be denied.
Document the damage carefully. Take photos of the storm damage and the water entry point. This helps your insurance company understand the cause. A water damage inspection can help you identify the source and extent of the damage before you file a claim.
What to Document
After a storm, document everything before you clean up. Take photos of the exterior and interior damage, including the roof, windows, and any water stains. Keep receipts for any temporary repairs you make, like tarping a hole in the roof.
Make a list of damaged personal belongings with their approximate value. Save any damaged items until the insurance adjuster sees them. If you have a home inventory, it can speed up the process. Do not throw anything away until you know what is needed.
Keep your insurance policy documents in a safe, dry place, and review them before storm season begins.
When to File a Claim
File your claim as soon as you can after a storm. Most policies require you to report damage within a reasonable time. Delays can complicate the process. Contact your insurance company directly to start the claim.
Before you file, consider whether the damage is more than your deductible. If the repair cost is close to your deductible, filing may not be worth it. Your insurance company will guide you through the process, but you are responsible for providing the evidence.
If you need help assessing the damage, a water damage inspection can provide a detailed report for your records.
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Call Now (817) 799-6732Frequently asked questions
Does storm damage include lightning strikes?
Lightning damage is often covered under standard homeowners policies. That includes damage to your home's electrical system, appliances, and sometimes even trees. Check your policy for specific coverage and any limits on electronics.
Are fallen trees on my property covered?
Coverage depends on whether the tree hits your home or other structures. If it hits your house, removal and repair are usually covered. If it falls without hitting anything, removal may not be covered. Your policy will define the limits.
What if my car is damaged in a storm?
Car damage from storms is covered under your auto insurance, not your homeowners policy. Comprehensive coverage typically covers hail, wind, and flood damage to your vehicle. Check with your auto insurer to confirm your coverage.