How Can Tornado Damage Affect Your Insurance Policy

​Coping with the wreckage of a tornado is worrisome enough—you don't need to add to it by worrying about your insurance policy. If you have Homeowners' or Renters' insurance, we wanted to take a moment to go over the fundamentals with you: What else are you protected for in the event of tornadoes?

Is tornado damage covered by renters or homeowners insurance?
Tornadoes are classified as "windstorms", which is commonly one of your policy's listed risks. Because everyone's circumstances are different, it's important to check your policy. Keep in mind that you'll have to pay a deductible and that your insurance policy will have limitations.

Difference Between Homeowners and Renters Insurance
Since you're a homeowner, your homeowners' insurance will most likely cover tornado-related damage to your home. If you're a renter: Damage to your personal belongings would also be covered, depending on the specific cause. 

Coverage Exceptions
Please remember that you will not be covered for any flooding damage in the event of a tornado. However, this is generally not a concern in the aftermath of tornadoes. But it's still a good idea to understand how your insurance policy handles flood damage—you can learn more about that in your contract.

In addition, your car is not considered "personal property" and is not covered by your homeowners' or renters' insurance. So, if a tornado causes a tree to fall on your car, that would be covered by your auto insurance.

Can I file a Loss of Use claim when my power goes out due to bad weather?
If your home is destroyed due to certain specific circumstances, the Loss of Use section of your Homeowners or Renters policy can assist you. Power outages are not covered by your policy if there is no other physical damage to the building. 

Your insurance will also not cover any frozen or refrigerated food that is ruined due to a power outage.

Tornado Safety Tips
Assuming you live in a tornado-prone location, there are things you can do to strengthen your property and prevent damage before it occurs. 

• Your roof should be reinforced. Have a professional attach hurricane clips on the inside of your roof. 
• All personal items should be kept to avoid being swept away by the storm.
• Gather documents such as your home's deed, birth certificates, and Social Security cards.

Conclusion
You must always be aware of what your insurance policy covers. In case of disaster, you’ll be less worried knowing which is covered.

At Hayek Insurance, we do our best in making sure that our clients are well-protected with affordable and comprehensive policies. We make sure to go the extra mile to help you with your needs. To learn more about how we can help you, please contact our agency at (805) 496-8835 or Click Here to request a free quote. The coverage discussed is not guaranteed. Please contact our agents to make sure you have adequate coverage and your needs are being met. We are happy to help!