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Fallen trees, fallen roof tiles and battered cars. Storms and heavy rain can cause devastating damage. But who pays?
Insurance covers a lot of storm damage to cars, houses and property, but not all. You are to blame for some damage through misconduct. You should try it anyway: hope for goodwill from your insurance company. But hurry – and do it right!
What do I have to do if I notice damage that the insurance company might cover?
Insured should a Photo or video of the damage do, says Julika Unger from the consumer advice center in Rhineland-Palatinate: “You should secure the evidence. With a photo or video, you can show the insurance company that the damage is a result of the storm.” Of course, you can also clear away fallen branches or roof tiles afterwards.
How soon do I have to report to my insurance company?
“Immediately,” says Julika Unger. If you notice damage, you should report on the same day if possible – otherwise you may be at a disadvantage. Because if damage is only reported a week after the storm, the insurance company may doubt that the damage is actually the result of the storm.
Can I repair damage myself?
Yes, you are even part of it obliged to secure damages. Makeshift repairs to the window or roof are therefore not a problem. However, you should definitely discuss larger work, especially by craftsmen, with your insurance company.
My car was damaged by the storm. Does the insurance pay for this?
Yes. Both the Fully comprehensive as well as partially comprehensive pay for storm damage. Insured persons are also not automatically transferred to a worse one no-claims class classified. Normally, however, they have to prove that there was a storm at all. “In a pinch, the reference to reports in the press is enough,” says Peter Rösler, who works as an insurance expert for the North Rhine-Westphalia consumer advice center. However, in the event of a total loss, the insurance only reimburses the current value of the car – not the price that the consumer paid at the time of purchase.
Who pays for damage to buildings?
The pays for all damage caused directly to houses building insurance. Of course, this also applies to covered roofs and broken windows. However, the basement will floodedyou need additional insurance for elemental damage. “The have in NRW, however, at most 20 percent of the insured,” estimates insurance consultant Peter Rösler.
Does insurance also pay for furniture damaged by the storm?
Yes. If it’s through broken windows rained in has or electrical equipment from a lightning strike were destroyed, pays the Household insurance. But beware: if the water came through open or closed windows, you have no claim. “In this case, the insurance company requires you to think ahead and be careful. For example, by lowering the shutters,” says Peter Rösler.
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