Tips on Filing Tornado Damage Insurance Claims.

By Carlie Lawson, eHow Contributor | updated: October 04, 2010

If a tornado damages your home, your standard homeowner’s policy usually covers the damage. In some tornado- and hurricane-prone areas of the U.S., however, a standard homeowner’s policy offers limited or no coverage for this type of storm damage. If a tornado damages your vehicle, your auto policy covers it if you have comprehensive coverage.

Standard Homeowner’s Insurance

A standard homeowner’s insurance policy, HO-3–the most common U.S. homeowner’s policy–covers direct losses due to tornadoes, wind storms and many other natural perils. In states that frequently experience hurricanes, insurance companies may issue homeowner’s policies without wind coverage included.

Wind Insurance

In communities along the U.S. Atlantic and Gulf coasts, a standard homeowner’s policy may not cover wind damage. Property owners in these areas purchase wind insurance, also referred to as hurricane insurance, to cover rebuilding a structure damaged by wind, wind gusts, tornadoes or cyclones. For example, properties located in Texas’ 14 coastal counties need separate coverage for wind and hail damage. A special insurance pool, the Texas Windstorm Insurance Association, offers this insurance. Properties must pass a windstorm inspection to show they meet windstorm-resistant building standards to qualify for coverage.

Auto Insurance

The comprehensive coverage component of an automotive policy covers damage to your vehicle from noncollision related incidents, including tornadoes and other wind damage. It pays for repairs after you meet your deductible. Although states don’t require this coverage, the issuer of your car loan may.

Wind Resistance

Making your home wind-resistant can reduce tornado damage. Areas to pay special attention to include the doors, windows and roof. Ensure tight seals on windows and doors and use tie-downs for the roof. Proper roof angle and the condition and roofing material can also impact wind-resistance.

Filing a Claim

If a tornado damages your home or vehicle, contact your insurance agent immediately to file your insurance claim. Provide a detailed description of the damage. Photograph the damage. Inventory the damaged property and make a copy. Keep the original and provide the insurance adjuster the copy. Provide an item description, date of purchase, purchase price and replacement cost for each item. Make temporary repairs to reduce further damage. Take photos of these, too. Save your receipts and make copies for the insurance adjuster. If the home is uninhabitable, save your hotel and meal receipts. If you have additional living expenses coverage in your homeowner’s policy, it will reimburse you for the hotel and meals up to your coverage limit.

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