Winter Ice Storm FAQ
Save yourself some time and check out our Frequently Asked Questions about Winter Storms.
FAQ
1) A tree branch fell on my house, is that covered?
Yes, If a tree falls on your home, or other building/structure that is insured on your policy, that is covered.
2) There are tree limbs all over my backyard, will insurance pay to remove them?
Unless the tree limbs damaged a covered structure or property (house, vehicle, shed, boat, etc), -or- it is blocking emergency access, there is no coverage and it’s the responsibility of the homeowner to clean up the debris.
3) There’s a big limb hanging and about to fall, will insurance pay to remove it before it does damage?
No, the same answer as #3 applies. If there has been no damage to a covered structure, there is no coverage. It is the responsibility of the homeowner to have the limbs removed. Furthermore, lack of timely action could be negligence and result in future claims being denied.
4) My neighbor’s tree fell on my house. Their insurance pays, right?
No. Unless the tree was known to be diseased and the neighbor was negligent, your insurance pays. In general, it doesn’t matter where the tree started, it’s where it ends.
5) A tree branch fell on my car while it was parked. Is that covered?
Yes, if the tree falls on your car while it is parked, this is covered under comprehensive insurance.
6) I came out to my car and someone must have hit it and drove off. Is that covered?
Yes, if you have one of two coverages: Uninsured Motorist Property Damage (UMPD) or Collision. UMPD generally has a lower deductible and requires a policy report.
7) I lost control on black ice and went off the road. Is that Collision or Comprehensive?
Collision. Anytime there is a driving or moving incident, it is collision with the exception of hitting a deer. That is usually Comprehensive.
8) Our power went out and all the food in our freezer and refrigerator went bad!
There is usually some coverage for this. It depends on the policy and insurance carrier. Give us a call to see if this is covered.
9) My power went out, will insurance pay for my hotel?
Not if it is a general power outage with no damage to property. The power is simply out, there is no damage to your home. However, call us about coverage if your food spoils.
10) A pipe froze and burst under our sink, is that covered?
Yes, frozen pipe damage is also generally covered. Make sure to get it as dry as possible to stop the growth of mold (which is usually not covered).
