In East Tennessee, we know the routine. The sky darkens, the wind picks up, the weather alerts start sounding and, before long, somebody is checking to see whether the power is still on.

Frequent thunderstorms, high winds and falling trees can leave homeowners dealing with damage — and wondering what insurance will cover. Here are three situations worth understanding before the next storm rolls through.

Your neighbor’s tree falls on your house

It may be your neighbor’s tree, but that does not automatically mean your neighbor’s insurance pays.

In many cases, if a healthy tree falls during a storm and damages your home, you file a claim with your own homeowners insurance. However, if the tree was obviously dead, diseased or dangerous and the neighbor knew about the problem but failed to address it, liability may be handled differently.

Document the damage and the condition of the tree, and contact your insurance agent before cleanup begins, unless immediate work is necessary for safety.

The power goes out and the refrigerator gets warm

A long power outage can turn a refrigerator and freezer full of groceries into an expensive loss. Some homeowners policies provide coverage for food spoilage caused by a covered power outage, but limits and deductibles vary.

Before throwing everything away, take photos and make a list of spoiled food. Then check with your insurance company to determine whether filing a claim makes financial sense.

The storm damages an older roof

Homeowners insurance generally covers sudden storm damage, such as damage from wind or hail, but it does not cover normal wear and tear.

If an older roof was already deteriorating, an insurer may determine that part of the damage resulted from age rather than the storm. Depending on the policy, the roof also may be covered at actual cash value rather than full replacement cost.

Before the next storm

A few minutes of preparation can make the claims process easier:

  • Take current photos of your roof and the exterior of your home.
  • Photograph large trees that could damage your house.
  • Keep receipts and records for major home improvements, especially a new roof.
  • Know your homeowners insurance deductible.
  • Ask whether your roof is covered for replacement cost or actual cash value.
  • Ask whether your policy covers refrigerated or frozen food after a power outage and whether a separate deductible applies.
  • Keep your insurance company and agent’s contact information somewhere accessible if the power and internet are out.
  • After a storm, photograph damage before making permanent repairs.

The best time to understand your coverage is before the thunder starts. Around here, another storm is never too far away.

Amy Harrington Bible is a feature writer for KnoxTNToday, writing a weekly column that will offer valuable insights and practical tips to enhance daily life. Amy Harrington Bible is the owner of Harrington Insurance Agency, a company that has been offering independent insurance services in the Knoxville, TN area since 1942. Bible carries the legacy of the family-owned and operated business with the skills and experience to meet any insurance need you may have. Website link is Harrington Insurance Agency

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