Tornadoes wreak havoc on homes and businesses, leaving property owners grappling with the aftermath. Most recently in our state of Florida, a powerful and destructive EF-2 Tornado touched down in the cities of Crystal River, Dunedin, and North Clearwater Beach. Knowing the right steps to take in the wake of a tornado is crucial for ensuring a smooth insurance claims process and a swift recovery. In this blog, we’ll talk about common windstorm policy conditions, exclusions, how to document damage, and how to work with your insurance company’s field and/or desk adjusters.
Common Policy Conditions
- In general, “windstorm” is not specifically defined in most policy forms.
- A fair definition is a storm that has violent, sustained winds and/or wind gusts capable of causing damage.
Windstorm generally is not defined in a policy form. Therefore, the generally understood and accepted meaning of windstorm applies. A windstorm is a storm consisting of violent wind capable of causing damage.
Policy Exclusions
A frequently encountered policy provision that can affect your windstorm loss claim is a coverage exclusion specifying that windstorm damage does not include loss to the inside of a building or the property contained in a building caused by precipitation unless the direct force of wind or hail damages the building and causes an opening in a roof or wall through which the precipitation enters.
- If this or similar policy language applies to a windstorm loss, you will need to confirm and document that the covered peril – in this case, a tornado or windstorm – created an opening through which precipitation entered a structure.
Another important exclusion that may affect your windstorm claim is a water damage exclusion. This water damage exclusion is important when you are claiming property damage due to windstorm losses, and especially hurricane losses, where flood waters usually come with hurricane-force winds.
Some policies also exclude damage caused by water that overflows from a sump.
Photographing Collateral Damage
As soon as safe and possible to do so, you need to start gathering as much photo and video documentation of the damages.
You should include close-up photos that depict actual damage at the scene.
In cases of a windstorm or tornado, you should also document any loss beyond roof damage, including:
- Close-up photos of undamaged roofing or siding, or
- Other features that may affect additional trades, matching, or scenarios.
All items that you are going to be claiming as damaged should be documented with close-up photos. Try your best to clearly show that covered damage exists.
Overviews and Close-Ups
- You should also include photos of collateral damage (or lack thereof).
- “Collateral damage” means it is incidental to the loss, such as damage to noncovered property, street signs, neighboring structures, or vehicles.
- Documentation of collateral damage helps you to prove that a windstorm actually occurred.
How To Negotiate With Your Property Insurance Adjuster
Every insurance policy is different, even if the difference is slight. This is why it is hugely important for you to understand your specific policy coverages and limits.
Consider having an expert such as a licensed Public Adjuster or property insurance attorney guide you through to review the coverage limits, deductibles, and any exclusions that could apply to your claim. This will help you navigate the negotiation process with confidence and purpose.
For more information about negotiating with your insurance adjuster about how to get a fair settlement for your claim, read our blog How To Negotiate With Your Property Insurance Adjuster
Key Takeaways
The path to recovery after a tornado will take resilience, patience, and expert advice. By adhering to these steps, you not only ensure the preservation of your property but also increase the chances that you get a full, fair, and reasonable compensation for your losses. Remember, your insurance company is supposed to be there to support you on this journey toward rebuilding, and you have rights throughout the process that allow you representation when you feel you need it.
If you have any questions about how to file an insurance claim, how to negotiate your insurance claim, or just general claim questions call us to get started now.
