Short answer: YES!
We’re going to delve into a topic that is crucial for homeowners, especially those living in areas prone to severe weather: wind and hail insurance. If you’ve ever wondered what this type of insurance is and whether you need it, this blog post is for you.
What is Wind and Hail Insurance?
This type of coverage protects your home and personal belongings from damage caused by windstorms and hail. Wind and Hail is typically included in standard homeowners insurance policies. However, in areas prone to severe windstorms and hail, such as coastal regions or Tornado Alley, insurers may exclude this coverage from standard policies and offer it separately (think NCJUA)
Why is Wind and Hail Insurance Important?
1. Financial Protection: Wind and hail can cause significant damage to your home’s structure and your personal belongings. This can include damage to your roof, windows, siding, and any outdoor structures. Hurricanes can also spawn tornadoes which can result in catastrophic damage. Wind and hail insurance can help cover the cost of repairs or replacements, saving you from potentially significant out-of-pocket expenses.
2. Peace of Mind: Knowing that you’re protected against wind and hail damage can provide peace of mind, especially if you live in an area prone to severe weather.
3. Mortgage Requirement: If you live in a high-risk area, your mortgage lender may require you to have wind and hail insurance as a condition of your loan.
What Does Wind and Hail Insurance Cover?
Wind and hail insurance typically covers damage to your home and personal belongings caused by windstorms and hail. This can include damage to your roof, windows, siding, and outdoor structures. It can also cover damage to your personal belongings inside the home if the wind or hail allows rain or debris to enter.
However, it’s important to note that wind and hail insurance usually does not cover damage caused by flooding, even if the flood is a result of the storm. For flood protection, you would need separate flood insurance.
If you do not have a mortgage, wind and hail insurance is not required but is a crucial coverage for homeowners, especially those living in areas prone to severe weather. It provides financial protection and peace of mind. Most carriers will block access to new insurance policies or coverage changes when a named storm enters preset coordinates around our area.
As always, it’s important to read your policy carefully to understand what is and isn’t covered. If you have any questions or need help finding the right coverage for your home, our experienced insurance agents are here to help. Contact us today to learn more!