What Are the Most Common Home Insurance Claims?

The life of a homeowner is one of greater independence and flexibility to make a living space one’s own. However, owning a home also comes with many responsibilities. If your home falls victim to damage or burglary, you’ll need to file a claim with your insurance company to receive compensation for any losses.

What types of damage does your homeowner’s insurance policy cover, though? Learn more about the most common home insurance claims and be prepared for any eventuality. If you do need to file a claim, consider hiring a public adjuster to assist you with the process.

Wind and Hail Damage

If you live in an area that sees its share of hurricanes, tornadoes, or other severe storms, you’ve probably witnessed how high winds can devastate property. More than one-third of all homeowner’s insurance claims in the US deal with damage from wind and hail. Severe winds can easily topple trees and send patio furniture flying, but homeowner’s insurance will generally cover any losses.

Good To Know:

North Carolina is particularly susceptible to hurricanes, especially in areas near the coast. Look for a public adjuster in NC if your home has been damaged by a hurricane.

Fire and Lightning

Fire damage claims are among the most expensive and complex homeowner’s insurance claims. Luckily, homeowner’s insurance policies were originally designed with fire damage in mind, so you’re likely to receive fair compensation should your home be affected by a fire. This category also covers lightning strikes that damage the home.

Water Damage

Any home with indoor plumbing carries some risk of water damage, whether from a leaky fixture or a pipe that freezes and bursts. With the help of a public adjuster, you can work together to look through your homeowner’s insurance policy and determine which types of water damage are covered.

A Quick Note:

Flood damage is not generally covered under standard homeowner’s insurance policies. If you’re worried about flooding in your home, you’ll need to purchase a separate, flood-specific policy to cover any damage.

Miscellaneous Property Damage

Sometimes, accidental property damage happens; it’s just a part of being a homeowner. Whether a neighbor kid inadvertently breaks your window with a baseball or a heavy tree branch falls and breaks your fence, insurance can compensate you for damages.

Liability

In the insurance sector, liability claims refer to instances when somebody gets hurt or has their own property damaged while in your home. For example, if a guest falls down your derelict basement stairs and sues you for having safety hazards in your home, your homeowner’s insurance can pay their medical bills.

If you’re a homeowner, be prepared for every eventuality when it comes to the most common home insurance claims. Familiarize yourself with your policy and fill in any gaps in coverage before any damage occurs.