Does Your Policy Cover Winter Storms? Understanding Your Property Insurance in Extreme Weather

Winter storms can wreak havoc on your home, causing thousands of dollars in damage due to a variety of perils - from heavy snow loads to frozen pipes. Understanding exactly what your homeowners insurance covers during extreme winter weather is crucial for protecting your investment.

The Rising Cost of Winter Storm Damage

Known as the Great Texas Freeze, the term “polar vortex” was introduced as a winter blast crippled the state in February of 2021. The freezing temperatures lasted more than eight days, forcing over 10 million Texas residents to go without electricity and causing pipes to burst, along with a series of other damaging events from car accidents to bare shelves at grocery stores. The end result from this winter storm damage impacted 26 states and cost more than $17.4 billion.

What's Typically Covered

Most standard homeowners insurance policies provide coverage for winter storm damage, but the specific circumstances matter. Here's what's typically covered under a standard policy:

• Wind damage from winter storms: This includes damage to your roof, siding, or other structures from high winds, as well as falling trees or branches caused by wind or weight of ice.
• Snow and ice damage: Coverage typically extends to roof collapse or damage from the weight of snow, ice, or sleet. This also includes damage to gutters and downspouts.
• Interior water damage from burst pipes: If pipes freeze and burst due to cold temperatures, resulting water damage to your walls, floors, and personal property is usually covered.
• Additional living expenses: If winter storm damage makes your home temporarily uninhabitable, your policy may cover hotel stays and other living expenses while repairs are made.

What May Not Be Covered

It's equally important to understand what might not be covered by your policy. Flooding from melting snow or ice dams typically requires separate flood insurance. Additionally, damage that results from neglect or poor maintenance - such as failing to maintain adequate heat in your home during cold weather - may be denied.

Preventive maintenance is your best defense against winter storm damage. Consider having your roof inspected before winter, insulating pipes, and keeping your heating system well-maintained. These steps, combined with understanding your insurance coverage with a team member from our office, can help ensure you're protected when winter storms strike.