Greensboro Home Insurance Hazards: Storms

Your Greensboro home insurance policy likely covers many types of storm damage but not all. Flooding, for example, that occurs as the result of a storm will not be covered unless you've made flood insurance a part of your comprehensive homeowner's protection. This requires that you obtain a separate, special flood insurance policy, usually from the federal government's National Flood Insurance Program, available through FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency). A few, select number of private insurers may also offer excess flood insurance.

It's interesting to note that, according to FEMA, 90% of the natural disasters that occur in the United States involve some form of flood damage. Even homeowners living in areas considered low risk for floods can see that, according to FEMA, flood insurance may be something to consider. It's affordable and easy to buy.

What Storm Damage Standard Greensboro Home Insurance Typically Covers

The types of storm damage typically covered by a standard homeowner's insurance policy include the following:

• Water damage
• Ice damage
• Lightning strikes
• Damaging power surges
• Wind
• Hail
• Fallen trees

Water damage coverage can vary, depending on your policy, so it's important to know what your particular policy will pay and for what. Ice or water damage to your roof is likely covered but water flooding your basement may not be covered.

If lightning strikes your home and causes fire or smoke damage that will likely be covered. Some, but not all, policies cover power surges that damage appliances or electronic components. Some policies may also pay for food ruined as a result of a power outage but this type of coverage is less common. Remember, however, that you can buy insurance to cover just about any type of peril if you're willing to pay the premium required. Talk to your insurance representative to determine what you have, what's available and what the costs are to put in place the exact coverage you want.

Other Storm Damage

Violent storms may be responsible for numerous different types of damage to your home, whether it's strong winds that dislodge roof shingles or knock a tree over into the roof, hail that dents your vinyl siding or hard-driving rain or snow that breaks a window and damages your home's interior or household possessions. All these are likely covered but, again, insurance policies are unique and yours should be thoroughly read and understood. Consult your insurance broker with any questions.