Insurance: storm damage – who pays?

In the event of storm damage, different insurance policies come into play that may cover the damage. An orientation on who to turn to and when.

When is a storm a storm?

As a rule, the following applies to the relevant insurances: A “storm” is present from wind force eight, i.e. from 62 kilometers per hour. You can find out whether this strength has been achieved on site, for example via the German Weather Service.

Who pays for damage to the house?

For example, if the storm covered roof tiles or a tree damaged the house, that is Homeowners Insurance The right person to speak to. Storm damage is usually included in residential building insurance, but you should look again in the small print.

What if things in the house were destroyed?

A broken roof can also quickly lead to home furnishings being damaged. Then it is Household insurance The right person to speak to. Here, too, it makes sense to take a look at the small print to see exactly what your own contract covers. One thing is clear: anyone who has simply left the window open cannot hope for compensation.

Who pays for storm damage to the car?

If your own car was damaged by a tree, branches or roof tiles, that is Partial comprehensive insurance the right contact person who takes care of damage from wind force eight. With comprehensive insurance, the customer has often agreed to a deductible. As a rule, you only get an upgrade if you were to blame for the damage.

What about the full basement?

Important: the normal building insurance does not cover such water damage. For this you have to use a so-called Natural hazard insurance completed.

Could it be that I have to pay for storm damage to others?

That is possible. If you have not properly secured and checked your own roof or your own trees in the garden, you may be responsible for damage and then have to settle it. The details of fault are then often very controversial. In such cases it is important to have a Liability insurance to have. A typical example is the poorly secured flower pot on the tenant’s balcony, which falls down and causes damage.

What do I have to look out for after damage?

It is important to document the damage (take photos, make a list of the damaged items, look for witnesses, etc.) and report it to the insurance company quickly. At the same time, you have to make sure that the damage remains as low as possible. This is called the “duty to mitigate damage”. If the roof is damaged, for example, you should try to cover it up as quickly as possible.