The short answer
Understanding Your Policy's Wind and Hail Coverage
Wind and hail damage is commonly included in a standard homeowners policy. This can cover roof damage from a tornado or broken windows from flying debris. If the storm's wind creates an opening that allows rain inside, that water damage is often covered. However, if water seeps in through an existing crack or due to poor maintenance, the claim may be denied.
The key is the 'direct cause' of the damage. Insurers look for a sudden, accidental event caused by the storm. If the wind damages your roof and rain ruins your ceiling, that's typically a covered loss. Still, you must prove the damage was directly caused by the storm event and not by wear and tear over time.
When Flood Damage Is Excluded
Flood damage is almost never covered by a standard homeowners or business insurance policy. This includes water that rises from the ground, such as from an overflowing river, heavy rainfall that pools, or storm surge. For this coverage, you need a separate flood insurance policy through the National Flood Insurance Program or a private insurer.
This exclusion can lead to significant misunderstandings after a major storm. If heavy rain simply overwhelms the ground and water flows into your home, that is flood damage. It does not matter if the rain was part of a named storm or a routine thunderstorm. The source of the water, from the ground up, defines it as a flood.
- Water rising from a nearby creek or river.
- Storm surge from a hurricane or tropical storm.
- Rapid accumulation of surface water from heavy rainfall.
- Mudflows caused by saturated ground.
- Sewer backup due to overwhelmed municipal systems (often requires a separate endorsement).
- Groundwater seeping into a basement through walls or floor.
The Role of Home Maintenance in Claims
Insurance is designed for sudden, accidental losses, not for problems stemming from neglect. If a storm reveals a pre-existing issue, your claim could be denied. For example, if your roof was old and missing shingles before the storm, an insurer may argue the subsequent leak was due to lack of maintenance, not the storm itself.
Regular maintenance is your responsibility. This includes keeping trees trimmed, cleaning gutters, and ensuring your roof is in good repair. After a storm in Oklahoma City, an adjuster will assess whether the damage was truly caused by the event. Documenting your home's condition with photos before storm season can be very helpful if you need to file a claim.
Steps to Take After Storm Damage Occurs
Your first priority is safety. Avoid entering standing water if electricity is present. Once safe, document everything. Take photos and videos of all damage, both to the structure and your belongings. Make temporary repairs like placing a tarp over a hole in the roof to prevent further damage, but keep receipts for any materials you buy.
Contact your insurance company to start the claims process. Be prepared to provide your policy number and a detailed description. You may also need to contact local water damage pros for emergency water extraction and drying to stabilize the property. Keep a log of all communications with your insurer and any contractors you hire.
Common Storm Damage Scenarios and Coverage
A tree limb crashes through your roof, allowing rain to soak your living room. This is typically covered, as the wind or weight of the limb caused the initial damage. Conversely, if your basement floods because the sump pump failed during a storm, that is usually considered a mechanical failure, not direct storm damage, and may not be covered.
Driving rain through a broken window is covered, but water seeping under a door due to poor sealing often is not. Hail damage to siding is covered, but if the hail damage leads to a leak months later due to rot, that subsequent damage might be denied. Always report damage promptly and work with your adjuster to understand the determination.
- Covered: Roof leak from a wind-created hole.
- Covered: Water damage from a hail-damaged skylight.
- Not Covered: Floodwater entering through a basement door.
- Not Covered: Leak from a worn-out roof sealant.
- Covered: Damage from a fallen tree that hit the structure.
- Depends: Water backup from a storm-damaged municipal sewer line.
Talk to someone now
Water keeps spreading into floors and walls, so it is worth acting early. Calls are answered 24/7.
Call Now (405) 565-9833Frequently asked questions
Does homeowners insurance cover water damage from a leaking roof?
It depends on why the roof leaked. If wind or hail from a storm created an opening, the resulting water damage is likely covered. If the leak is due to normal wear, age, or lack of maintenance, it typically is not covered. An adjuster will inspect to determine the cause.
What if a storm causes a power outage and my freezer food spoils?
Many homeowners policies include coverage for food spoilage due to a power outage caused by an off-premises event, like a storm damaging utility lines. There is usually a sub-limit, such as $500. Check your policy details or ask your agent about this specific endorsement.
How long do I have to file a storm damage claim?
You should file a claim as soon as possible after the damage occurs. Most policies require prompt notice. There may also be a contractual time limit, often one year from the date of loss, but starting the process quickly helps with documentation and prevents further damage to your property.