The short answer
What Windstorm Insurance Typically Covers
This coverage generally pays for repairs to your home and detached structures from direct wind damage. That includes a roof torn off by a hurricane, siding ripped away, or windows shattered by hail. It also often covers the removal of trees that have fallen onto your house due to high winds, a common source of initial damage.
However, it typically does not cover flooding from storm surge or rising ground water, which requires a separate flood policy. It also usually excludes damage you could have prevented, like a roof leak that existed before the storm. Knowing these limits is key to understanding your financial risk after a major weather event.
How Wind Can Lead to Water Damage
A windstorm often causes water damage by creating openings in your home's exterior. Driving rain can enter through damaged siding, a compromised roof, or broken windows. This water can soak insulation, ruin drywall, and lead to hidden moisture problems inside walls and ceilings, requiring professional drying.
If wind damages your roof, water intrusion can be gradual and widespread. Water may seep along roof decking and drip down into your attic and living spaces later. This type of damage often needs services like moisture mapping and structural drying to prevent mold and rot from developing over time.
- Roof shingles or tiles torn off, exposing the underlayment.
- Driving rain forced under eaves or through window frames.
- A tree limb puncturing the roof or an exterior wall.
- Wind lifting flashing around chimneys or vents, creating gaps.
- Debris breaking windows or damaging siding, allowing water entry.
- Gutters ripped away, causing water to spill behind walls.
Deciding If You Need a Separate Policy
Your need for separate windstorm insurance depends heavily on your location and your main policy's exclusions. In many coastal or high-wind regions, standard policies exclude wind and hail damage entirely. Mortgage lenders in these areas frequently require this specific endorsement on your homeowner's insurance.
Review your current policy's declarations page and list of exclusions carefully. Look for terms like 'hurricane deductible' or 'wind/hail exclusion.' If your area has an oceanic climate with mild wet winters and dry summers, strong seasonal storms can still occur. Contact your insurance agent to discuss your specific risk and coverage options.
The Claims Process for Wind and Water
After a wind event, document all damage thoroughly with photos and videos before making temporary repairs. File your claim with your insurer as soon as possible. They will send an adjuster to assess the damage from the wind and any resulting water intrusion. Be prepared to show your policy and documentation.
The insurer's adjuster will determine what they believe is covered. You may need to get estimates for repairs from qualified contractors. For water damage that followed the wind, services like emergency water extraction and drywall water damage repair are often necessary. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
Preparing Your Home Before a Storm
Taking preventive steps can reduce potential damage from a windstorm. Secure or bring indoors any outdoor furniture, decorations, or garbage cans that could become projectiles. Trim tree branches that hang over your roof or near your home. Ensure your roof is in good repair and that shingles are securely fastened.
Install storm shutters or have plywood pre-cut to cover windows. Know how to shut off your utilities. Inside, move valuables away from windows and to an interior room or higher floor if flooding is a risk. These actions won't stop a major storm, but they can minimize the scale of damage your home sustains.
- Inspect and maintain your roof, flashing, and gutters regularly.
- Reinforce garage doors, as they are a common failure point.
- Secure sheds, gazebos, and other outbuildings with proper anchors.
- Check that fences are sturdy and gates are latched securely.
- Clear your yard of loose items that high winds can pick up.
- Have a plan for where to go and how to communicate if you evacuate.
Need help right now?
Phones are answered 24/7 for Federal Way and nearby communities.
Call Now (253) 785-9361Frequently asked questions
Does windstorm insurance cover water damage from the storm?
It typically covers water damage only if wind first created an opening, like a hole in the roof or a broken window, allowing rain to enter. Damage from flooding, storm surge, or ground water rising is not covered; that requires a separate flood insurance policy.
What should I do if a tree falls on my house?
Ensure everyone is safe and avoid the area if there is structural instability. Contact your insurance company to start a claim. You will likely need pros for emergency water extraction if the tree punctured the roof, followed by structural drying and repairs to the roof and interior.
Is windstorm insurance required in Federal Way?
It is not universally required by law, but your mortgage lender may require it if your standard homeowner's policy has a wind exclusion. Review your policy or ask your insurance agent. If you live in Federal Way, understanding your specific coverage is important due to potential seasonal wind events.
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