Does Homeowners’ Insurance Cover Wind Damage or Tornadoes?

If you’re like many people, you know that your homeowners’ insurance policy is there to protect you in the event of a natural disaster – but does it cover a tornado or high winds? This guide explains.

Does Homeowners’ Insurance Cover Wind Damage or Tornadoes?

Homeowners’ insurance can cover wind damage and tornado damage. Some insurers require you to purchase additional coverage for it, but others only cover it up to a certain point. Most policies do include what’s called “dwelling coverage,” and that coverage can help pay for repairs or rebuilding if a tornado causes damage. 

Note: Some insurance policies exclude wind damage, so if you’re in the market for a new policy, make sure you ask whether it’ll be covered under the quotes you get.

The reason you have an insurance policy is so that it protects you in the event of minor damage or a total loss (which is what insurers call it when your home is completely destroyed). If you don’t have a policy that covers total loss, you’ll be on the hook for paying to replace your home if the unspeakable happens.

Related: Stats on homeowner knowledge of extreme weather concerns and insurance

What About Personal Property Coverage?

Personal property coverage is the insurance you need if your belongings are damaged or destroyed in a tornado. It may be a separate part of your existing policy, and you may need to buy additional coverage for it.

How Do Deductibles and Limits Work on Tornado and Wind Damage Insurance?

When you get a new insurance policy, your agent will talk to you about deductibles. Your deductible is the amount of money you have to come up with before your insurer will even consider making a payment for repairs or replacement – even if you’re sure you’re covered. 

Insurance policies also have limits. A limit is the maximum amount an insurer will pay to cover your losses. You should make sure you buy enough coverage to pay to entirely rebuild your home. Remember, too, that it may cost more or less than you paid for your home to rebuild it; it simply depends on current construction costs.

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