Wind/Hail Coverage

Don't Get Blown Away!

We have all seen the devastation to the communities hit by recent tornadoes.  We are certainly not strangers to these storms here in Texas.
But what  is a homeowner's recourse after a devastating storm? This is where your insurance should protect you. This is why you have been paying those premiums! So that you can rebuild/repair that home that has been lost or damaged.
  On your homeowner's policy you should have a coverage for "Wind/Hail" listed. This will cover damage done to your home by Hail, Wind, Tornadoes and Hurricanes. (But not Flood- this is a separate policy altogether) Wind/Hail is listed as a deducible amount, not a coverage amount. In most cases, your wind/hail coverage should be the same amount as your "Dwelling Coverage". You will pay a set deductible before that coverage kicks in. The deductible is usually a percentage. For example, 1% of a $200,000 dwelling value would be $2,000. So  you would pay the first $2,000 of the repair/rebuild amount and your insurance would (should) cover they remaining amount. This coverage will just cover the actual building (or home). It doesn't cover Personal Property (contents). Fortunately most policies will cover Personal property as well. 
   One thing you want to make sure of is that you have a Replacement Cost policy, both for your dwelling AND your personal property. (They are 2 different types coverage and have separate rules governing them.) Some companies will try to sell you on a lower price without telling you it is an Actual Cash Value (ACV) policy. A Replacement Cost policy will pay out the amount to "replace" your home and it's contents at today's value. An ACV policy will pay out what it cost minus depreciation for the time and wear on your home and it's contents. It is your choice. But do yourself a favor. Spend a little more money and get a great deal more coverage with a RC policy. 
  Your agent is there to make sure you have the coverage you need and want. Ask him or her questions. You pay a premium to make sure you, your family, your home and your possessions are taken care of. Make your agent earn his/her keep by explaining what coverage you have, what your limits are.  Insurance is there to make you whole again in the case of a loss. After a devastating storm like the recent tornadoes, you need to know your insurance will do what you bought it for- Protect you!

Can we help you? call The Brockman Agency toll free 1-877-987-8683