Life is unpredictable, and insurance is designed to soften the financial blow when the unexpected happens. Whether you are a homeowner, business owner, or manage multiple commercial or residential properties, the right policies can help you breathe a bit easier with that financial safety net under you.
Weather-related events are some of the most unpredictable and uncontrollable threats to property. While many property owners carry liability policies and even storm insurance, not everyone is protected by wind insurance, a subcategory of storm damage protection. Coverage for wind damage can prove invaluable after catastrophic weather events.
What Does a Wind Policy Cover?
Wind coverage offers financial protection to policyholders from property damage related to gusty storms such as hurricanes, gales, and tornadoes. Generally, wind insurance covers physical damages to property and personal belongings, although many wind policies have a specified time frame within which you must file a claim to be reimbursed. This type of coverage is generally added as a rider to homeowners insurance.
Wind policies generally cover damage to main properties and belongings inside. Many wind policies also cover detached structures such as sheds and garages. If roof damage occurs, rain and flying debris can cause even more damage to interiors and property. Wind insurance usually covers this type of damage also if claims are made soon after the storm passes.
What Are Typical Wind Policy Exclusions?
While coverage against wind damage protects structural property and belongings, this specialized policy does not protect vehicles damaged as a result of wind, such as a tree falling on a vehicle. Vehicle owners need comprehensive auto policies to pay for repair or replacement in these cases.
Another element of storm-related damage wind insurance does not protect against is rising waters. Hurricanes, for example, pose wind danger as well as damage from storm surge, torrential rain, and other high-water risks such as failed levees and dams. Property owners must purchase separate flood insurance to protect against this danger.
Who Needs Wind Insurance?
Property owners in coastal states facing hurricanes and tornadoes can benefit from wind insurance, as can residents in midwestern states where tornadoes and gales are a high risk. While unexpected storms can happen anywhere, those with the highest threats of potential damage from wind storms benefit the most from carrying wind coverage.
Is Wind Insurance Worth It?
All insurance policies are forms of risk management. For those who live in areas where the likelihood of damaging or catastrophic wind storms are high, wind insurance is a solid investment. This type of coverage can help you salvage something out of a difficult, frightening situation.
Ultimately, even with advanced predictive tools and warning systems, nobody can control the weather. In minutes, wind can damage or destroy property that has been standing for decades. Wind policies are designed to make dealing with a storm’s aftermath a little easier financially.
About Brooks, Todd & McNeil
Since 1839, the independent agents at Brooks, Todd & McNeil have been pleased to offer our community the best and most affordable policies from a variety of providers. Our dedicated facilitators are ready to put their 75 years of combined experience to work on your claims. To learn more about our products and services, contact us today at (800) 448-4567.