Storm damage insurance questions answered
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Homeowners facing the threat of or actual damage from Southern California winter storms need to know what’s covered by their property insurance policies. Here are some answers to frequently asked questions from the Insurance Information Network of California, an industry-sponsored trade group.
Question: Am I covered if high water damages my home?
Answer: Standard insurance covers damage from rain, hail, sleet and snow that falls from the sky but doesn’t cover damage from rising water. A separate federal flood insurance policy, which can be purchased along with property insurance, covers flood damage. Information about flood insurance is available at www.floodsmart.gov and (800) 427-9662 or from an insurance agent. New policies take 30 days to go into effect.
Q: Am I covered by a hill collapsing and sliding into my home?
A: Neither standard property insurance nor flood insurance covers landslides. Homeowners should be aware that there is no commercially available insurance against mudslides.
Q: Winds damaged my roof causing a damaging leak. Covered?
A: Typically, yes. Homeowner insurance covers wind damage to a roof. However, it does not cover damage to an old or poorly maintained roof. Insurers periodically inspect roof conditions before renewing policies.
Q: A storm blows a tree on to my home, causing damage. Covered?
A: Damage is covered and sometimes up to $500 is available to remove the fallen tree. Removing trees that fall in yards and do not damage the structure are the responsibility of the owner.
For more information go to www.iinc.org.
-- Marc Lifsher
