Understanding Wind vs. Flood Damage: Why the Distinction Matters in Storm Claims

Understanding the difference between wind vs. flood damage is essential when filing property insurance claims after a storm or hurricane. Separate insurance policies typically cover wind and flood damage, and how you handle them could be the difference between a fully paid claim and a denied one.

Insurance treats wind and flood damage separately

A severe storm can cause high winds, heavy rain, and flash floods, leading to both wind and storm damage from the same weather event.

When this happens, it is important to understand that wind and flood damage are usually covered by separate insurance policies, and you must handle these claims individually. You will need to prove what weather caused which damages and file with each insurance provider accordingly.

Most homeowners, renters, business, and commercial property insurance policies include windstorm damage in their standard coverage. According to the Insurance Information Institute (III), 19 states have an additional hurricane deductible if a storm is classified as such. In states that do not, some policies may still have windstorm deductibles.

Most standard policies do not cover flood damage. You have to purchase this coverage in addition to your regular property insurance, and your policy may be from a different provider.

What is covered by a standard property insurance policy?

Most basic property insurance policies cover damages caused by:

• Aircraft
• Vehicles
• Explosions
• Fire
• Lightning
• Riots or civil commotions
• Smoke
• Theft
• Vandalism

Standard policies generally pay for damages to the primary covered property, other structures on the property (such as garages or gazebos), equipment, and building contents. If you have questions about your coverage, our property insurance lawyers could review your policy and tell you more.

What counts as wind damage?

Wind damage is any destruction to your property caused by high-speed winds, hurricanes and tornadoes. Usually, this includes structural damage and any other destruction resulting from it to covered property. So, for example, if water enters your home because of wind damage to your roof, it is a wind damage claim, not a flood damage claim.

Common examples of wind damage include:

• Broken siding
• Broken shutters, soffits, and gutters
• Broken windows and doors
• Missing shingles or roof sections
• Structural damage from wind gusts, falling trees, or flying debris

Because wind damage is part of most basic property insurance policies, your overall claim should cover these issues. Our wind damage lawyers could help you seek payment.

What counts as flood damage?

Flood damage is damage specifically caused by excess water on normally dry land due to rising water levels, such as from a storm surge or overflowing river. Flood insurance does not cover damage from excess water caused by problems inside a structure, such as broken pipes or a sewer backup. It also does not cover water damage from wind-driven rain.

In situations where it applies, flood insurance usually pays for damages caused to:

• Appliances
• Cabinets
• Carpeting
• Electrical and plumbing systems
• Foundations, walls, and staircases
• Raw materials and merchandise (for business/commercial policies)
• Valuable personal items, such as antiques or art

If you live in a floodplain, your lender may require that you have flood insurance. If it is not required, it is still strongly suggested that you purchase it. You can do this privately or through the government-run National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP).

If you are unsure of your flood protection, our flood damage lawyers could review and explain your policy.

Common challenges storm damage claimants face

In situations involving both wind damage and water damage, you could quickly find yourself stuck between your standard property insurance provider and your flood insurance provider, with both refusing to take ownership of the problem.

To get coverage, you will need to prove the cause of the damage and file claims with the right insurer in the right order. Working with our wind damage lawyer and/or flood damage lawyer could help you prevent delays, underpayments, and denials that could create stress and financial hardships for you and your family.

Tips for filing a successful claim

To help ensure the success of your wind or flood damage claim, you should do the following:

Notify the Insurance Company

Most property insurance policies include prompt notice requirements for filing a claim.

For NFIP policyholders, you generally have 60 days to submit a Proof of Loss statement for flood damage.

Document the damage

You should take photographs and video of the wind or flood damage as soon as possible, but remember your safety should be your first consideration. Make sure you get clear shots of any structural issues, such as holes in the roof. You should also take pictures and make an itemized list of damaged furnishings, appliances, and personal property.

Secure your property

Take steps to protect your property from further damage, which might include temporary or emergency repairs.

Keep a list of expenses

Many insurance policies pay for living expenses if you cannot stay in your home while it is repaired. Track your expenses if you have to stay in a hotel, eat meals out, or buy items you need for day-to-day living, such as clothing and hygiene products.

Business and commercial policies usually cover business loss if you must temporarily close. Keep a record of your ongoing operating expenses, payroll, and estimated lost revenue.

How do our insurance lawyers help clients?

Our wind damage lawyers and flood damage lawyers help clients get accurate and prompt insurance settlements. We have years of experience representing policyholders. We know how insurance works, what the rules are, and the tactics insurers use to avoid paying.

Whether you are just filing an initial storm damage claim or fighting an unresolved issue, our legal team can assist you. We could:

• Identify all of your available coverage and file claims with all providers
• Communicate with the insurance company and adjusters
• Help you document damages
• Help you obtain estimates for repairs/replacements
• Negotiate with the insurance companies for the maximum compensation possible
• Take legal action if the insurance companies act in bad faith or breach your contract

Contact our wind and flood damage attorneys

McWherter Scott & Bobbitt PLC focuses almost exclusively on representing insurance policyholders. We know how complex storm damage claims can be, especially those that involve wind and flood damage. Our lawyers are here to help you get fair payment.

Contact us today for a consultation and connect with our wind damage or flood damage lawyers. We serve clients in Tennessee and across the Southeast and Midwest.