Homeowners Insurance and Natural Disasters: What You Need to Know
Natural disasters are much different from regular storms or other events that could cause damage to your home. It is crucial to know the effect of natural disasters and how to protect your home from the damage they cause. A traditional homeowners insurance policy may not protect your home and property from natural disasters. Instead, you may require a specific type of policy that is designed to cover damages caused by such events.
Living in High-Risk Areas
If you live in an area prone to natural disasters, it is advisable to buy a policy that covers each type of disaster. Your homeowners policy may not cover all the damages caused by natural disasters. If you are not sure about the level of risk in your area, contact your insurance provider, who will evaluate your risk and enlighten you on the types of coverage you need.
Natural Flooding
Natural flooding emanates from a variety of sources. Excessive rain, sinkholes, rivers, coastal surges, and even plumbing issues are all possible causes. Homeowners insurance policies will normally deny all claims caused by natural flooding. The only exception to the rule is damages caused by faulty plumbing that results in leaking or broken pipes. When it comes to natural flooding, you will need a flood insurance policy that will cover any damages to your home or property.
Unique Flood Protection
There are special flood insurance policies that are backed by the government (National Flood Insurance Program). These policies avail homeowners with the opportunity to purchase flood insurance if they live in an area where this type of event occurs frequently. The cost will be dependent on what your local community has done to lower the risk of potential flooding.
Hurricane and Tornado Storm Coverage
While tornado damage is normally covered by a traditional homeowners policy, hurricanes are not. Your homeowners insurance may cover the wind and water damage caused by a tornado. However, you may need to purchase a supplemental policy to cover the flooding and winds produced by a hurricane. Hurricane policies are essential if you live along the coast of the southeastern states and want to make sure your home is properly insured.
Protection Against Earthquakes
If you live near a known fault line, it is advisable to buy a separate policy to protect your home from earthquake damage. The amount you pay will depend on many different factors including, where your house is located, materials used in its construction, the durability of the foundation, and the insured value of your home, just to name a few. Your insurer will walk you through the process of determining the cost of your premiums.
Volcano Coverage
Believe it or not, your traditional homeowners policy does cover a portion of what is considered volcano damage. This includes ash, dust, particles, and lava. It will also pay for these substances to be removed. What your policy does not cover, however, are landslides and shock waves.
When you’re ready to purchase your homeowners insurance, make it a point to learn about potential risks for natural disasters. Call our experts at Remland Insurance Services, Inc. to learn more. We have the information you need to make wise insurance decisions. Contact us today!
