Wind can occur all across the Northland and causes significant damage to both residential and commercial properties. Understanding your insurance coverage is essential to protecting your investment. In this blog, we’ll break down what wind damage is, what your insurance typically covers, what it doesn’t, and steps you can take to prevent costly repairs. If you’re a homeowner or business owner, this guide will help you answer the important question, “Does my insurance cover wind damage?”
What Is Wind Damage?
Wind damage occurs when high winds, typically associated with storms such as hurricanes, tornadoes, or severe thunderstorms, cause physical harm to structures. The damage can range from uprooted trees, broken windows, and roof damage to complete structural collapse in extreme cases. Even moderate winds can lead to issues like damaged siding, torn off shingles, or debris causing property harm.
What to expect with different wind speeds
- 30-40mph – branches can begin to break off, and smaller objects can blow away
- 40-50mph – larger tree limbs can snap and larger objects can topple or blow away
- 50-60mph – shingles on roofs can become loose, and power lines may fall
- 60-75mph – larger trees can topple, severe roof damage can occur
- 75+mph – major widespread destruction will occur as structures become compromised
What Does Homeowner’s Insurance Cover?
In most standard homeowner’s policies, wind damage is covered under the “dwelling” portion of your policy. This typically includes damage to the structure of the home itself, such as the roof, walls, and windows, as well as other property damage caused by the wind.
For example, if a tree falls on your home due to wind, your homeowner’s insurance would generally cover the cost of removing the tree and repairing the roof, siding, or windows affected by the damage. If high winds cause debris to fly into the windows, causing glass breakage, this would also typically be covered.
What Is Not Covered?
While wind damage is generally covered, there are some notable exceptions and additional considerations:
- Flooding: Wind-driven rain can cause water intrusion, but damage due to flooding isn’t typically covered under a standard homeowner’s policy. If your property is in a flood-prone area, you should consider purchasing separate flood insurance to ensure you’re adequately covered.
- Negligence: Insurance will likely not cover damage caused by neglect or lack of maintenance. For example, if a poorly maintained roof is blown off during a storm due to pre-existing wear and tear, your insurer might reject the claim, citing failure to maintain the property properly.
- Wind-driven damage to vehicles: Your auto insurance might cover damage caused to vehicles by windstorms, but only if you have comprehensive coverage. If you don’t have this coverage, repairs to the vehicle will be out-of-pocket.
Commercial Property Insurance and Wind Damage
For businesses, commercial property insurance generally includes windstorm damage, but there may be exclusions depending on the location or type of business. For example, if your business is located in an area prone to hurricanes, your policy might have a higher deductible or exclusions for certain types of wind damage. In some cases, separate coverage for flood or windstorms might be required.
Business owners should carefully review their policies to ensure they have the necessary coverage for wind damage, particularly when they have valuable assets like equipment, inventory, or structures vulnerable to storm damage.
How Can Homeowners and Business Owners Prevent Wind Damage?
Preventing wind damage is key to minimizing potential repairs and insurance claims. Here are several preventive measures homeowners and business owners can take:
- Trim Trees and Shrubs
Large, overhanging branches are a common cause of wind damage. Keep trees trimmed and maintain the landscape around your property. This will reduce the risk of falling branches or trees damaging your home or business.
- Secure Loose Objects
Properly secure patio furniture, trash cans, or other outdoor items. Alternatively, storing them indoors would be ideal during stormy weather to prevent them from becoming projectiles.
- Inspect and Repair Roofs
Regular roof inspections can ensure your shingles or tiles are in good condition. If your roof is old or damaged, replacing it before storm season can save you from costly repairs later on.
- Install Impact-Resistant Windows and Shutters
Install storm shutters or impact-resistant windows. These can prevent broken glass and other forms of wind damage.
- Reinforce Doors and Windows
Using wind-resistant doors, windows, and garage doors is wise. They can offer additional protection from powerful gusts, reducing the risk of structural damage.
- Review Your Insurance Policy
Annually reviewing your policies will help ensure they include adequate coverage for wind damage. This also ensures that your home or business is properly insured for other common risks you face.
Stay Protected with Reliable Insurance Agency
High winds here in Minnesota and Wisconsin can be unpredictable, but your insurance coverage doesn’t have to be. At Reliable Insurance Agency, we help homeowners and business owners understand their policies. We ensure they have the right protection in place before the next storm hits. If you’re unsure about your coverage or want to explore additional options, our team is here to help. Give us a call or stop by one of our offices in Hermantown, Cloquet or Superior. We’re happy to walk you through your options and make sure you’re prepared for whatever the weather brings.
