You’ve probably asked yourself this very question – is siding covered by insurance? It’s a common concern for homeowners, especially when facing unexpected repairs or replacements. The good news is that, in many cases, your homeowners insurance may help cover the costs. But like with anything related to insurance, the answer isn’t always straightforward. If you’re looking for the most reliable and professional Berks County roofing contractors, look no further than our experienced team at Ram Built.
When Is Siding Covered by Insurance?
Generally, standard homeowners insurance covers siding damage if the damage results from a ‘covered peril.’ This means something sudden and accidental that your policy specifically lists. Let’s say a wild hailstorm leaves your siding damaged. This type of event typically falls under covered perils. If you’re wondering, “Is siding covered by insurance in this instance?” the answer is likely yes.
Common Covered Perils for Siding Damage
- Fire and Smoke Damage: Damage caused by a house fire or even smoke damage from a nearby fire is generally covered.
- Windstorms and Hailstorms: Damage from wind knocking down trees or debris, as well as hail damage, is usually covered. But be sure to check if your policy includes any wind speed thresholds.
- Lightning Strikes: Damage caused directly by lightning hitting your home, including your siding, should be covered.
- Vandalism or Malicious Mischief: If someone intentionally damages your siding, most homeowner’s insurance policies will cover repairs.
- Falling Objects: Damage from trees, branches, or other objects falling onto your siding would likely be covered.
- Vehicle Impacts: If a car crashes into your house and damages the siding, your insurance should cover it.
- Sudden and Accidental Discharge of Water or Steam: This generally covers damage caused by a burst pipe or plumbing issue inside your house.
Here’s Where It Gets Tricky: What Insurance Might Not Cover
Knowing when siding is covered by insurance also involves understanding what isn’t covered. Sometimes, damage happens over time, not from one dramatic event. These situations may be considered normal “wear and tear,” and most homeowners insurance policies don’t cover damage from gradual deterioration.
Examples of Exclusions
- Damage from Pests: Termites, carpenter ants, woodpeckers… these pests can cause major siding problems. But damage from infestations or nesting is usually excluded because it’s seen as preventable with proper maintenance. However, if a covered peril — such as a falling tree — causes damage that then allowed a pest infestation, your homeowners insurance might cover your costs, according to information found on homeowners and renters insurance.
- Rot or Decay: Similar to pests, rot is generally seen as a maintenance issue. Unless it’s directly caused by a covered peril, your insurance may not pay for repairs.
- Cosmetic Damage: If your siding is faded or a little warped, but structurally sound, it might be considered purely cosmetic. Insurance generally won’t cover cosmetic fixes.
- Damage from Lack of Maintenance: Not cleaning your gutters regularly or neglecting cracks that get worse over time are examples of a homeowner’s responsibility. Insurance companies expect you to do your part in protecting your property.
Important Factors Affecting Siding Coverage
Several factors can impact whether your siding is covered by insurance. Factors like your location, insurance company, and policy details are important to consider.
- Your Policy’s Deductible: Before filing a claim, compare your deductible to the estimated cost of repairs. If the repair costs less than your deductible, filing might not be worth it.
- Coverage Limits: Insurance policies have coverage limits. Be sure you know your maximum payout for siding damage. If the repairs exceed this limit, you’ll be responsible for any amount over.
- Your Location: Believe it or not, your location plays a significant role. If you live in an area more prone to hurricanes, hailstorms, or wildfires, your insurance coverage rates are likely higher.
Before You File that Claim…
Let’s say you get hit with a massive storm and your siding is damaged. What should your game plan be?
What to Do if Your Siding Gets Damaged
- Safety First: Make sure the area is safe before you start inspecting damage or taking photos. If there are downed power lines, stay far away and contact the proper authorities.
- Document Everything: Take detailed pictures and videos of the damage from different angles. This helps create a record of the damage’s extent and provides visual evidence for your claim.
- Take Temporary Measures: If there’s a hole in your siding or water getting in, make temporary repairs with plywood, tarps, etc., to prevent further damage. Keep receipts for reimbursement.
- Know Who to Call: Contact your insurance company immediately to report the damage and start the claims process. The sooner, the better.
- Don’t Jump Into Repairs Yet: It’s tempting, but wait until the insurance adjuster assesses the damage. Starting repairs before they’ve inspected everything could affect how much your insurance will cover.
- Keep Detailed Records: Keep notes of all interactions with your insurance provider, contractors, and adjusters, along with any receipts for repairs. Organization is key.
A Word (Or Two) on Deductibles and Coverage
Understanding how deductibles and policy limits come into play can save you from unpleasant financial surprises when determining if siding is covered by insurance.
What Exactly Is a Deductible?
In the simplest terms, a deductible is the amount you’re responsible for paying before your insurance starts covering the rest. So, let’s say your siding repair will cost $5,000, and your policy has a $1,000 deductible. You pay the $1,000 upfront, then your insurance kicks in for the remaining $4,000. Easy enough, right?
Coverage Limits – The Upper Hand
Every policy has coverage limits—the maximum amount your insurance will pay out for a covered loss. This applies to everything in your policy, from personal belongings to dwelling coverage, which is what protects your siding. Your coverage limit needs to be high enough to rebuild or repair your home if a major disaster occurs. If you’re wondering, “Is replacing siding covered by insurance?” you’ll need to know this limit. It’s wise to discuss coverage limits with your agent or insurance representative, particularly if you’ve made improvements to your home or live in an area vulnerable to hurricanes or wildfires. If a significant event like this happened, wouldn’t you want to be able to rebuild or fully repair your home?
Conclusion
Is siding covered by insurance? More often than not, yes, but it’s a nuanced yes. Understanding the factors above will prepare you for these unexpected situations. Being proactive can prevent many headaches and unexpected expenses down the road. We’re proud to be recognized as one of the best roofing companies in Lehigh Valley, PA, and our Bethlehem, PA roof replacement services are second to none. If you have questions about your roofing needs or would like to discuss how we can assist you, don’t hesitate to contact us today!