Standard insurance policies typically cover wind damage to homes and businesses, but not to vehicles unless the auto policy-holder has optional comprehensive coverage, according to the Northwest Insurance Council.
Typical coverage includes
• Damage to homes from wind and fallen trees.
• Removal of trees that have fallen on buildings.
• Damaged personal property inside a building.
• Living expenses if damage renders a home unlivable.
• Cost of temporary repair to prevent further damage.
Typically not covered
• Removal of fallen trees that have not damaged buildings.
What to do if your home is damaged
• Document, photograph damage.
• Make temporary repairs to prevent further damage from wind or rain. Save receipts for reimbursement.
• Contact insurance agent immediately.
• Use only licensed contractor. Obtain building permits.
What not to do
• Avoid contractors who has for large deposits up front or remarkably low bids
• Don’t pay significant amounts for temporary repairs without contacting insurance agent.
• Don’t throw away damaged property before it has been examined by an insurance adjuster.
• For more information, visit
www.getreadynw.org or call (800) 664-4942.
