Do I Have Enough Insurance to Cover Natural Disaster Damage?

Natural disasters have increased in Iowa during the last few decades due to climate change. Although you may not have experienced a natural disaster loss in Des Moines, IA, you may in the foreseeable future. How do you protect yourself? Max Insurance LLC can help you assess your situation and ensure you have enough insurance to replace your structure and belongings.

What Types of Disasters Are Covered?

Most homeowners’ policies cover incidents like forest fires and excessive, weather-related occurrences such as lightning, hail, and windstorm damage, as well as the weight of excessive ice, sleet, or snow on roofs. Perils not covered include earthquakes, floods, sinkholes, mudslides, and landslides. These risks usually require you to buy a rider or add on a separate policy to cover such incidents.

Read and Understand Your Homeowner’s Policy

Coverage varies among insurance companies. Although policies generally include coverage for damage to your roof, siding, and windows, some insurers have started to limit payouts or increase deductibles due to increasing weather severity due to climate change. Also, consider adding flood insurance, even if you don’t live in a flood plain or near one of Des Moines’ many rivers. Make sure your policy covers backups from sump pumps and sewers if you have a basement, as flooding can occur when devices fail or storm sewers back up.

Other Ways to Protect Your Home

Keep your home in good repair by regularly replacing your roof and attending to outdoor and indoor maintenance. Notifying your insurer of upgrades may even offer discounts.

The staff at Max Insurance LLC, serving residents of Des Moines, IA, are experts on homeowner’s insurance policies. Contact our office today to learn what types of add-ons you can consider to keep your home fully protected from natural disasters.