With the growing severity of major storms, it is now more important than ever before to know what your homeowners insurance policy covers. Typically, homeowners policies do provide coverage for wind damage, but there are limitations and it is important to know the details.
Most insurance deductibles are set at a flat dollar amount. If you have a $1,000 deductible on a particular line of insurance, then you pay the deductible amount of $1,000 on a claim before your insurance covers the remaining cost. Wind coverage uses a percentage deductible, usually 1%, 2% or 5% of the Dwelling Limit also referred to as the Coverage A Limit. The premium is often cheaper with a 5% deductible, but on a $1,000,000 home, that is a $50,000 deductible cost to the homeowner!!
Some Connecticut residents are still recovering from Hurricane Henri in August 2021. Although Henri’s powerful winds did not directly hit the state, they caused significant damage. In 2018, the state had its worst tornado and severe weather outbreak since 1989. These recent events demonstrate Connecticut homes’ windstorm vulnerability and the importance of homeowners and wind insurance in CT.
What Is Wind Insurance, and What Does It Cover?
Wind insurance is specific property insurance coverage. It would cover you if there is damage to your home specifically from the wind. It is typically an addition to your current homeowners insurance policy and covers wind-related perils that standard policies exclude. These risks can include a variety of weather events, including:
- Hurricanes
- Tornadoes
- Tropical storms
- Straight-line winds
- Thunderstorms
The specific coverage details of your wind insurance policy will differ depending on the provider and level of coverage you choose. However, it generally covers repairing or replacing damage to your home’s structure and attached structures like garages, sheds, and fences. Additionally, some policies might extend coverage to damaged personal belongings within the home.
Why Is Your Connecticut Home Vulnerable to Wind Damage?
Being in the northeastern United States exposes Connecticut to significant windstorm threats.
- Coastal vulnerability: The state’s extensive coastline exposes it to the fury of hurricanes and tropical storms, bringing strong winds and heavy rains that can cause significant damage.
- Nor’easters: These powerful winter storms bring strong winds and heavy snowfall, which can lead to roof damage and structural strain.
- Tornadoes: While less frequent, tornadoes can occur anywhere in the state, posing a serious threat to homes and property
Wind damage can manifest in several ways, including:
- Roof & siding damage: High winds can rip off shingles, tear away siding, and cause leaks that compromise the structural integrity of your home.
- Structural instability: Strong winds can exert immense pressure
- on walls and foundations, potentially leading to cracks, bowing, and even complete structural collapse in extreme cases.
- Debris impact: Windstorms can hurl loose objects like branches,
- furniture, and unsecured tools, causing significant damage to windows, doors, and even the exterior walls of your home.
Dispelling Myths About Wind Insurance
There are some common misconceptions surrounding wind insurance:
- Myth: My homeowners insurance covers wind damage.
- Reality: While basic homeowners insurance might offer some protection for wind damage, it may have limitations or exclusions. Wind insurance provides more comprehensive coverage, specifically for wind-related perils.
- Myth: Wind insurance is expensive and unnecessary.
- Reality: Wind insurance costs vary depending on your location, the value of your home, and the level of coverage you select. However, wind insurance premiums are a small investment compared to the financial devastation that wind damage can cause.
Assessing Your Wind Insurance Needs
Before a storm hits, evaluating your existing homeowners insurance policy and determining if additional wind insurance is necessary is crucial. Here’s how to proceed:
Review your policy: Carefully examine your current homeowners insurance policy to understand the extent of wind damage coverage it provides. Look for details regarding deductibles, exclusions, and coverage limitations.
Contact your insurance agent: Connect with a licensed insurance agent at Brooks, Todd & McNeill. Our experts can assess your needs, explain different wind insurance options, and help you choose a policy that offers the most comprehensive protection for your Connecticut home.
Proactive Measures for Windstorm Preparedness
While wind insurance helps you financially recover from wind damage, taking preventive measures can minimize the risk of damage in the first place. Here are some steps you can take:
- Roof maintenance: Regularly inspect your roof for loose or damaged shingles, and perform necessary repairs to ensure wind resistance.
- Trim trees: Overgrown trees pose a significant risk during windstorms. Trim branches that hang close to your house to avoid them falling and causing damage.
- Secure outdoor belongings: Secure outdoor furniture, grills, and other loose objects that could become projectiles in high winds.
- Develop a storm preparedness plan: Create a plan for your family in case of a severe storm, including evacuation procedures, communication strategies, and a designated safe space within your home.
Combining proactive preparation with comprehensive wind insurance can significantly reduce the risk of wind damage and ensure your home remains a haven for you and your loved ones.
In addition to the tips mentioned above, here are some resources that can provide further guidance on windstorm preparedness:
- The National Hurricane Center: https://www.nhc.noaa.gov/
- The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA): https://www.fema.gov/
- The Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection: https://portal.ct.gov/DESPP
Remember, wind insurance is an essential investment for Connecticut homeowners. Don’t leave your home vulnerable to the financial repercussions of wind damage. Contact Brooks, Todd & McNeil at 800.448.4567 and speak with one of our experienced agents today.
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.