Is Your Home Ready For Storm Season?

What Your Insurance Needs to Cover

The calm before the storm is when you prepare to meet it. The calm after the storm is when you realize you beat it again!” – unknown

Storm season can bring anything from heavy rain and strong winds to hail, tornadoes, and flooding. While you can’t control the weather, you can control how well your home is insured…and prepared. Each year, homeowners face thousands of dollars in storm-related damage. They often discover too late that their homeowners’ policies don’t cover everything they thought it would.

Here’s how to make sure your home and your insurance are ready before the next storm hits.

1. Review What Your Homeowners Insurance Actually Covers

A standard homeowners policy typically covers damage caused by wind, hail, and lightning—common threats during storm season.

• However, not all types of weather-related damage are included. For example…
  • flooding from heavy rain or storm surge usually requires a separate flood insurance policy
  • earthquakes often need their own coverage as well.

It’s also important to understand deductibles and coverage limits. Some policies have separate deductibles for wind or hail damage, especially in coastal or storm-prone areas.

If you haven’t reviewed your policy in a while, now is the perfect time to check what’s included—and what isn’t.

2. Check Coverage for Roof and Exterior Damage

High winds, hail, and falling debris can cause significant roof and siding damage. Most homeowners policies include wind and hail protection, but claim limits and exclusions can vary.

• Some insurers may not cover older roofs or may offer only partial reimbursement based on the roof’s age and condition.

Tip: Schedule a roof inspection each year and make small repairs before storm season. Keeping your roof in good condition not only prevents leaks but can also help your insurance claim go more smoothly if damage occurs.

3. Make Sure You’re Protected Against Water Damage

Water can be one of the most destructive forces during storm season. However, not all water-related losses are treated equally by insurers.

• Sudden, accidental water damage (like a burst pipe) is usually covered.

• Flooding or water seepage from outside your home is not covered under standard homeowners insurance.

To fully protect your property, consider purchasing flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or a private insurer.

• Even homes outside designated flood zones can experience flooding after heavy rainfall, so don’t assume you’re safe just because you’re not near a body of water.

4. Don’t Forget About Personal Property and Additional Living Expenses

Storms can damage more than just your home’s structure—they can destroy furniture, electronics, and clothing too.

• Make sure your personal property coverage is enough to replace your belongings at today’s prices, not just their depreciated value.
  • Ask your agent about replacement cost coverage if you don’t already have it.
• If severe damage makes your home unlivable, additional living expenses (ALE) coverage can help pay for temporary housing, meals, and other costs while repairs are underway.
  • Review your policy to ensure your ALE limits are sufficient for your family’s needs.

5. Take Preventive Steps Before the Storm

Insurance is essential, but preparation is your first line of defense. Before storm season begins:

• Clear gutters and downspouts to prevent water buildup.

• Trim trees and remove dead branches near your home.

• Secure outdoor furniture and decorations that could become projectiles.

• Create a home inventory with photos or videos of your possessions.

• Store important documents and valuables in a waterproof, fireproof container.

“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”

Being proactive can minimize damage and make it easier to file a successful claim later.

Storm season doesn’t have to take you by surprise…

A few hours spent reviewing your homeowners insurance, and making small improvements around your home can save you thousands in repair costs and months of stress.

If you’re unsure what your policy covers, contact your insurance agent for a coverage review. They can help you identify gaps, explore flood or windstorm options, and ensure your home and finances are protected—no matter what the weather brings.

Along with great insurance options, we also offer Financial Services. You can count on us to be totally honest and upfront with you!

Contact us for all your insurance needs or questions!