It seems like a simple question with a simple answer. If you purchased a homeowners insurance policy, damage to your home or property from fire, storms or some other catastrophe is covered. Right?
Not necessarily.
House fires and storm damage, including wind and hail damage, are generally the most common claims insurance agents see, and typically your home and personal property as well as some other structures on your property are covered by standard policies. There are caveats, however, and the key to having the coverage that you need is to ask questions.
I have several storage buildings on my property. Are they all covered?
Standard policies will cover such structures as garages, sheds, pole barns and fences. Buildings that are used for a home business, however, are not. If you have additional buildings for storage, hobbies or other activities, check with your agent to be sure you don’t need additional coverage for them.
Are my valuable jewelry and art pieces covered?
While standard policies provide for the contents of your home that is damaged, high value items will usually need additional coverage that is specifically for those assets.
Does my policy cover my flood damaged basement?
That depends on what caused the flooding. If a water pipe bursts in your home the damage is covered, but flooding caused by a rising river or an overwhelmed sewer is not. Learn whether your home may be prone to flooding from rising water, sewer backup or flash flood and be sure you purchase flood insurance to protect your property.
My neighbor’s tree fell on my shed. Whose insurance covers the repair?
Unless your neighbor knew the tree was a hazard and you can prove it, you will be filing your claim with your own insurance agent.
Can I claim repairs to my home due to my foundation sinking?
Unfortunately, damages from earth movement, such as sinking or shifting, landslides or erosion, are not covered by typical insurance policies. Additional coverage may be available depending on where you live, such as earthquake insurance or mine subsidence coverage, but it’s important to understand exactly what is covered under these policies and what issues may exist in your neighborhood that could threaten your home.
If your home has been damaged by fire, storm, flooding or natural disaster, working with experts in insurance claims and repairs is crucial. For storm damage in Akron, Canton and the surrounding Ohio area, S&D Improvements can guide you through the claim process and repair your damaged home. Click here for details or to make an appointment for a free estimate.