Natural Disaster Claims
We can help you maximize your claim on the most common propertY damage
We have expertise in handling claims for residential property, commercial property, and condominiums
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Simplifying Natural Disaster Claims
If you have damage from a catastrophic loss, like a tornado, flood, or hurricane, please contact us right away. Many people are under the impression that Acts of God are not covered by their policy. We can review your policy and make sure you are properly compensated for your damage. Catastrophic natural disasters can be overwhelming for a home or business owner to deal with. Let us help you deal with your insurance company, so you can get back to doing the things that are important to you.
- Fire and smoke
- Lightning strikes
- Windstorms and hail
- Explosion
- Vandalism and malicious mischief
- Theft
- Damage from an aircraft, car or vehicle
- Falling objects
- Weight of ice, snow or sleet
- Water damage
FAQs about Natural Disaster Claims
What disasters does a standard Pennsylvania homeowners insurance policy cover?
A typical Pennsylvania homeowners policy (coverage A) protects your home and attached structures against damage caused by events like fire, lightning, wind, or hail. Coverage for detached structures, personal property and loss‑of‑use are also included. Because policies differ, always review your own policy or consult a licensed agent to confirm what perils are covered.
Does homeowners insurance in Pennsylvania cover flood damage?
No. The Pennsylvania Insurance Department’s homeowners guide explains that typical homeowners or renters policies do not cover damages resulting from a flood. To protect against flooding, you must purchase separate flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program or a private insurer; note that NFIP policies have a 30‑day waiting period before coverage takes effect. Mortgage lenders often require flood insurance if your home is located in a high‑risk flood zone.
Are earthquakes or sinkholes covered under a standard Pennsylvania policy?
Standard Pennsylvania homeowners policies generally exclude damage from earth movement, such as earthquakes and sinkholes. You can purchase an earthquake endorsement or separate coverage for sinkhole damage if needed. Talk with your insurance agent about adding these endorsements to your policy.
Does my policy cover damage from wind, hail or fallen trees?
Yes. Standard policies typically cover windstorms and hail damage to your home and attached structures. Allegheny County’s disaster‑insurance tips note that most damage resulting from fallen trees is covered by homeowners insurance, and removal costs may also be reimbursed. However, some insurers apply a separate wind‑and‑hail deductible; review your policy for details.
What should I do after a natural disaster to prepare for my insurance claim?
The Pennsylvania Insurance Department advises policyholders to contact their insurance company as soon as possible, document damage with photos or videos, and make temporary repairs to prevent further damage (keep receipts). Don’t throw away damaged items or make permanent repairs until the adjuster has inspected the property. Keep records of everyone you speak with and ask questions if anything is unclear. If you need assistance negotiating your claim, you may hire a licensed public adjuster; always verify that the adjuster is licensed through the Pennsylvania Insurance Department.
Will my Pennsylvania homeowners insurance pay for temporary living expenses if my home becomes uninhabitable after a disaster?
Yes. Homeowners policies include Loss‑of‑Use coverage, which pays for additional living expenses when you can’t live in your home because of a covered peril. Typical Pennsylvania policies set this coverage at about 20 % of the dwelling coverage limit, but you should check your individual policy limits.
How is replacement cost coverage different from actual cash value in Pennsylvania homeowners policies?
The Pennsylvania Insurance Department explains that replacement cost is the amount needed to rebuild your home or repair damage using materials of similar kind and quality without deducting for depreciation. Actual cash value is replacement cost minus age and wear and tear, which often results in lower claim payments. Many homeowners choose replacement‑cost coverage to avoid being under‑compensated after a loss.
What documentation should I prepare to support a natural‑disaster claim in Pennsylvania?
A home inventory is invaluable. The Pennsylvania Insurance Department and the NAIC advise grouping possessions by category or room, including receipts and model numbers, photographing or videotaping items, and storing the inventory safely (e.g., online or in a fire‑proof box). Having this documentation simplifies the claims process and helps you prove the value of damaged items. A home inventory is invaluable. The Pennsylvania Insurance Department and the NAIC advise grouping possessions by category or room, including receipts and model numbers, photographing or videotaping items, and storing the inventory safely (e.g., online or in a fire‑proof box). Having this documentation simplifies the claims process and helps you prove the value of damaged items.
Are mold or sewer‑backup damages covered by standard Pennsylvania homeowners policies?
Most homeowners policies exclude damage from mold, fungus or wet rot, along with other exclusions like earth movement and flood. Similarly, standard policies generally do not cover backed‑up sewers or sump‑pump overflow; you must buy a water‑backup endorsement to obtain coverage. However, sudden and accidental water damage from a burst pipe is typically covered. Review your policy or ask your agent about adding the appropriate endorsements.
What can I do if my claim is denied or if I disagree with the settlement offered by the insurer?
The Pennsylvania Insurance Department recommends documenting your repair costs, negotiating if you feel the offer is insufficient, and checking your policy for an appraisal clause. You can hire a licensed public adjuster to represent you in negotiations. If you still disagree or your claim is denied, review your policy’s coverage details and consider appealing to your insurer’s claim manager; you may also contact the Insurance Department’s Bureau of Consumer Services for assistance or to file a complaint.
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