Strong winds can cause severe damage to homes and commercial properties, often resulting in costly repairs. While most insurance policies cover wind damage, navigating the claims process can be complex—especially when there's a difference in how damage is evaluated.
At FairVantage, we help ensure wind damage is thoroughly documented and clearly presented to support a fair and efficient claim resolution.
What Does Insurance Cover?
Most homeowners' and commercial property insurance policies cover sudden and accidental wind damage, including:
✅ Roof Damage – Wind uplift can loosen, tear, or remove shingles, causing leaks and structural issues.
✅ Siding & Exterior Damage – High winds can rip off siding, crack brick, and damage stucco.
✅ Windows & Doors – Wind pressure and flying debris can break glass and weaken window frames.
✅ Gutters & Downspouts – Winds can bend, detach, or tear off gutters, leading to drainage problems.
✅ Fences & Outdoor Structures – Detached fences, damaged sheds, and fallen patio covers are often included in coverage.
✅ Interior Damage – If wind causes an opening in the roof or walls, leading to water intrusion, your policy may cover resulting interior repairs.
Common Exclusions & Limitations
🚫 Pre-Existing Damage – If the insurance company claims the damage was present before the storm, they may deny the claim.
🚫 High Wind Deductibles – Many policies have a separate windstorm deductible, which may be higher than the standard policy deductible.
🚫 Poor Maintenance – If the insurer believes neglect contributed to the damage, your claim may be denied.
🚫 Cosmetic Damage Exclusions – Some policies limit coverage for damage they classify as “cosmetic only,” even if it affects material durability.
Steps to Filing a Wind Damage Claim
1️⃣ Inspect Your Property – Check your roof, siding, and windows for missing shingles, cracks, or other signs of wind damage.
2️⃣ Document Everything – Take clear photos and videos of the damage before making any temporary repairs. If possible, include photos from before the storm for comparison.
3️⃣ Prevent Further Damage – Use tarps or temporary fixes to protect exposed areas from further harm.
4️⃣ Contact Your Insurance Company – Report the damage as soon as possible to avoid claim delays.
5️⃣ Get a Professional Inspection – Wind damage can be subtle or hidden. A FairVantage expert can help ensure a thorough inspection and well-documented findings.
6️⃣ Review the Settlement Offer – If you believe the offer doesn’t fully reflect the scope of damage, you may have the option to request a second opinion or pursue further review.
7️⃣ Dispute If Necessary – If you disagree with the claim outcome, options may include a reinspection, the appraisal process, or other resolution pathways.
How FairVantage Can Help
In some cases, wind-related damages may be overlooked or subject to policy limitations. At FairVantage, we:
✔️ Provide professional property inspections to ensure all wind damage is documented.
✔️ Review your policy to confirm your coverage and rights.
✔️ Collaborate with involved parties to support a balanced resolution.
✔️ Assist in the appraisal process or offer guidance when a claim requires further review.
