Damaged Siding After a Storm – When to File a Claim

builder and foreman looking at new home build and pointing at issues

Storms can create a significant amount of damage to any home. Most often, home insurance helps cover these losses. It can help to cover making repairs or replacements to the areas damaged. Siding may be one area of protection. The siding on your home offers protection to the structure. Damage to it puts your home at risk. Yet, it is not always wise to file a claim for damage. There are a few key things to consider before doing so.

What Happened With Damage To Your Home and Why

To file a claim for siding damage on your home insurance, you generally must prove it was due to an unavoidable incident or an accident. If the siding suffers damage due to being old and warn, your policy likely does not cover its repair or replacement.

For example, if the siding falls off due to the amount of mold buildup under it due to poor maintenance, the policy may not cover the loss. On the other hand, if the siding has damage due to the wind or hail damaging it, then you may be able to get some help. Your agent can offer recommendations on when you can file a claim. This generally happens after an inspection of the damage.

Consider Your Deductible

In a severe storm, such as a tornado, your policy may be ideal to work with. It can often cover significant damage without having to cost you much out-of-pocket. However, there are limits here. For example, your policy has a deductible. This is the amount you must pay first. The insurance policy covers the rest of the loss.

Let’s say wind blew off a few pieces of siding from your home. It may cost you $1,200 to make repairs. Your home insurance policy has a $1,000 deductible. In this case, your policy is only going to pay you $200 after the deductible. It may still be worthwhile to file a claim, depending on your needs. Still, a payout of only $200 might not prove worth it. However, if the damage is significantly larger, then it becomes essential to file a claim.

If your home suffers damage, your first step is to contact your agent. Let your home insurance agent arrange an inspection and estimate for the damage. Then, you can learn what steps you can take to get the repairs taken care of to ensure your home remains secure.

Do not put off this type of claim. You may have to file the claim within a certain amount of time after the incident occurs.

FAQ’s About Damaged Siding After a Storm – When to File a Claim

What is siding damage?

Siding damage refers to any harm caused to the exterior cladding of a building, such as cracks, dents, or holes.

What causes siding damage?

Siding damage can be caused by a variety of factors, including storms, wind, hail, and impact from debris.

When should I file a claim for siding damage?

You should file a claim for siding damage if the damage is significant enough to require repairs or replacement, and if the cost of repairs exceeds your deductible.

What should I do if I notice siding damage after a storm?

If you notice siding damage after a storm, it’s important to document the damage with photos and contact your insurance company to file a claim.

Will my insurance cover siding damage?

Whether or not your insurance covers siding damage depends on your policy and the specific circumstances of the damage. It’s important to review your policy and contact your insurance company to determine coverage.

How long do I have to file a claim for siding damage?

The time limit for filing a claim for siding damage varies by insurance company and policy. It’s important to review your policy and contact your insurance company as soon as possible after the damage occurs.

What should I expect during the siding damage claim process?

During the siding damage claim process, you can expect to work with an adjuster who will assess the damage and determine coverage. You may also need to provide documentation, such as photos and repair estimates.

How long does it take to get a siding damage claim approved?

The time it takes to get a siding damage claim approved varies by insurance company and policy. It can take anywhere from a few days to several weeks.

Can I choose my own contractor for siding repairs?

Whether or not you can choose your own contractor for siding repairs depends on your insurance policy. Some policies require you to use a contractor approved by the insurance company.

What should I do if my siding damage claim is denied?

If your siding damage claim is denied, you can appeal the decision or seek legal advice. It’s important to review your policy and understand the reason for the denial before taking any action.

Is siding damage from wind or hail covered by insurance?

Yes, most homeowners’ insurance policies cover damage to siding caused by wind or hail. However, coverage and policy specifics may vary, so it’s crucial to review your insurance documents and speak with your insurance agent to understand the extent of your coverage.

How to handle discontinued siding when dealing with damage?

If your damaged siding has been discontinued, the insurance company may provide compensation for replacing the damaged portions with similar or comparable materials. In some cases, this may require replacing the siding on the entire side of the home where the damage occurred to maintain a consistent appearance. It’s crucial to communicate with your insurance company and carefully review your policy to understand what is covered in this situation.

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