Do I Need Wind and Hail Insurance?
Wind and hail insurance comes to the rescue when gusty hazards wreak havoc on your property. They shield you from the financial burden of repairing damage caused by gales, winds, hail, and other gusty hazards. The core purpose of these types of insurance is to protect properties from the often devastating effects of wind and hail damage. But what does this protection entail?
When windstorms, hurricanes, or tornadoes strike, they can cause significant damage to the property itself, personal belongings within the property, and other detached structures. This damage can lead to substantial repair costs. Windstorm insurance steps in to shoulder these costs, covering the repair of roofs and windows harmed by big winds, and consequential damage from rain and debris. However, it’s important to note that windstorm insurance does not cover damage caused by storm surges and flooding, which are typically excluded from such policies.
Wind Insurance
While windstorm insurance covers a range of gusty hazards, it’s important to understand the specifics of wind insurance. This type of property insurance covers damages caused specifically by windstorms. In the unfortunate event of a windstorm, wind insurance typically covers the exterior and interior damage to a property, as well as personal property losses. Certain policies may also cover additional living expenses if the home becomes uninhabitable due to wind damage.
This coverage typically includes damages from hurricanes, tornadoes, and high winds. It covers common forms of wind-related damages such as roof damage, broken windows, and debris removal. While wind insurance can be part of a standard homeowners or property insurance, it can also be purchased as a separate policy for more comprehensive coverage.
Hail Insurance
When you think of hail, you might think of small, harmless ice pellets. But in reality, hail can cause significant damage, especially to buildings and personal property. This is where hail insurance comes in. It covers damage caused by hail to buildings and personal property, often including structures like roofs and windows, which are particularly susceptible to hail impact.
However, it’s important to note that hail insurance typically excludes certain types of damage, such as cosmetic damage that does not impair the function of the structure. The frequency and severity of hail events can vary by location, making hail insurance an important consideration for those in hail-prone regions.
While hail insurance can be offered as a stand-alone policy, it is often included as part of a windstorm or more comprehensive policy, sharing some coverage elements with these policies.
