Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Natural Disasters? A 2025 Guide
These range from hurricanes to wildfires, and they appear to be occurring with increasing frequency and severity. As a homeowner, you need to get to know whether your policy will cover the damage. This post discusses whether your homeowners insurance policy covers natural disasters, what kinds of events it usually includes, and how to remain fully protected in 2025.
What Will Be Covered by the Standard Homeowners Insurance?
These are the very common ones included in a standard homeowners insurance:
- Dwelling Protection: Covers the physical structure of the house (roof, walls, etc.).
- Personal Property: Covers loss or damage to furniture, electronics, etc.
- Liability Protection: Covers legal costs if someone is injured on your property.
However, in the case of natural disasters, not all policies are the same. This is what you need to learn:
Is Home Insurance Coverage for Natural Disasters?
🌪️ Hurricanes and Tornadoes
- Hurricanes: Damage due to wind is typically covered under standard policies, but flooding is not. You may need separate flood insurance.
- Tornadoes: Windstorm provisions in most homeowners policies generally cover tornado damage.
🌊 Flooding
Flood insurance is not part of home insurance policies. You will need to obtain a separate policy from either the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or private insurers.
🔥 Wildfires
Wildfire coverage is generally part of home insurance, but only if it is a “peril” insured in the policy (fire damage, etc.). In high-risk areas, insurers may require additional fire coverage or increased premiums.
🏔️ Earthquakes
A standard policy does not cover earthquakes. This coverage can be added as a standalone endorsement or as a separate policy.
❄️ Snow and Ice
Snow and ice damage (e.g., collapsed roof) is usually covered, except if the damage could have been avoided with proper maintenance.
Which Natural Disasters Are Usually Excluded?
- Flooding: Requires a separate flood insurance policy.
- Earthquakes: Covered only through a separate policy or endorsement.
- Landslides: Usually excluded, though coverage may be provided in high-risk areas as a rider.
How to Ensure You’re Provided with Correct Cover for Natural Disasters
Review Your Policy
Examine your policy to understand the specific exclusions for natural disasters. Check out coverage for windstorm, fire, and other hazards.
Add Endorsements or Riders
- If necessary, add earthquake or flood insurance.
- Check regional add-ons for coverage of hurricanes or wildfires.
- For flood-prone areas, get a flood insurance policy from NFIP or a private insurer.
Shop Around for Specialized Coverage
If you live in a high-risk area (e.g., earthquake zone), look for specialized insurers who offer broader coverage for natural disasters.
How to File a Claim After a Natural Disaster
Document Damage Immediately
Document your claim and submit photos and videos of the damage as soon as possible.
Contact Your Insurer
Contact and speak with your insurer or use their online claim portal. Be sure to specify the category of the disaster (hurricane, wildfire, etc.).
Temporary Repairs
Cover broken windows or areas of the house temporarily to prevent further damage, but keep receipts for any repairs made.
Get a Professional Assessment
In some cases, the insurance company may send an adjuster to assess the damage.
Pro Tips for Homeowners in High-Risk Areas
- Live in an Earthquake Zone? Elect to get a standalone earthquake policy or endorsement.
- Flood-prone Area? Always get flood insurance.
- Hurricane-Prone Region? Find plans that include wind damage without exorbitant deductibles.
FAQ Section
❓Is homeowners insurance coverage for damage by a wildfire?
Answer: Yes, the majority of standard homeowners insurance policies cover fire damage, including wildfires. However, policies in fire-prone areas may require additional coverage.
❓Do I need separate flood insurance?
Answer: Yes, flooding is excluded from standard homeowners policies. You will need to purchase a separate flood insurance policy for this type of risk.
❓Are earthquakes covered by homeowners insurance policies?
Answer: Not under a standard policy. Earthquake coverage needs to be purchased either as a standalone policy or as an endorsement.
❓What is the difference between earthquake and flood insurance?
- Earthquake insurance: Covers structural damage caused by earthquakes.
- Flood insurance: Covers damage caused by flooding (water entering your home).
❓How do I file a claim for natural disaster damage?
Answer: Document the damage with photos, contact your insurer right away, and proceed with their claims process, ensuring all necessary documents are filed in a timely manner.
