INSURANCE INDUSTRY OUTLINES LOSSES COVERED BY INSURANCE DUE TO WINTER STORMS AND STEPS TO FILING A CLAIM

For release on: January 14, 1999
For more information or interview resources in your area, contact:
Mary Bonelli/Mitch Wilson, Ohio Insurance Institute, 614-228-1593
Ted Kinney, Professional Insurance Agents Association of Ohio, 614-239-1387

These are coverages and exclusions common under most insurance policies. Coverage may vary based on your specific policy. It's advised that you check with your insurance agent or company representative for policy limitations and exclusions.

I. Dwellings and other structures are usually covered for any losses unless the cause of loss is specifically listed as not covered or as an exclusion in the homeowners policy.

Examples of weather-related dwelling and other structure losses which are not covered include:

	Freezing of plumbing, heating, air conditioning, etc. unless heat has been maintained or the pipes have been drained.
	Freezing, thawing, pressure or weight of water or ice to a fence, pavement, patio, swimming pool, foundation, retaining wall or dock.

II. Coverage for damage to personal property (your possessions) is usually limited to causes of loss specifically listed in the policy.

Examples of weather-related personal property losses which are covered include:

	Damage caused by wind or hail. If the damaged property is inside the dwelling, coverage applies if the outside wall or roof is damaged first. For example, damage caused by ice, snow or sleet which enters through a window left open is not covered. Also, damage to watercraft is not covered unless stored in a building or garage.
	Damage caused by the weight of ice, snow or sleet to property inside the dwelling.
	Damage caused by freezing of plumbing as long as heat is maintained or the pipes are drained.

Examples of other types of losses not covered are:

	Losses due to flooding. A separate flood insurance policy would be required for flood protection. Your agent or company representative can assist you in obtaining flood insurance.
	Ice and wind damage to trees. Some insurance policies cover removal of a fallen tree or debris if it causes damage to a covered structure such as your home or vehicle. Your policy will state limits for removal of debris.
	Loss caused by power failure which occurs off-premises. For example food spoilage caused by a power outage is typically not covered by a standard homeowners policy. Some insurers offer a special endorsement to cover this loss.
	Unless provided as an endorsement or through a deluxe homeowners policy, sewer and drain back up damage is typically not covered.

How to make the insurance claims process work for you

	If possible make temporary repairs to prevent further weather-related damage. Use plastic or wood to board up holes or leaks in the roof, turn off water at the main valve if a water leak occurs. Be careful not to risk your own safety in making such repairs. Your insurer will reimburse you for such repairs, so keep your receipts.
	Contact your insurance company or agent to report the damage. If it's vehicle-related, contact your auto insurance company, if it's home-related contact your homeowners insurer. Auto damages other than those related to crashes are covered under the comprehensive (other than collision) coverage.
	Let your insurer know if the losses require you to temporarily live elsewhere. Most homeowners insurance policies provide additional living expenses as well as paying for repairs and damage to personal possessions. You will be advanced money for temporary shelter and other personal needs, but make sure that the check is made out to you and not your mortgagee for easier cashing.
	Let the insurer guide you through the claims process. You may be asked to first complete a "proof of loss form" or you may be visited by a claims adjuster prior to completing any paperwork.
	Develop a list of items damaged, along with date of purchase or any receipts that might be available. The more information you have about your damaged possessions the faster the claim is usually settled. Include brand names, model numbers and photos when possible.
	Don't throw out any damaged items until instructed to do so. In all likelihood the adjuster will want to see all damaged items. If items are particularly ruined by water damage, try to locate an area within your home that can be used to dry out and display such items.
	Make a list of what you want to show the claims adjuster. Note which rooms have been damaged and particularly the walls and ceiling areas. Be sure to check closets and other structures on your property such as a garage. If you suspect there might be structural damage that might not be visible, be sure to tell the adjuster in case an additional inspection is required. Most companies will cover such inspections.
	To save time, start getting written repair bids from licensed contractors, but don't start permanent repairs until the adjuster approves the repair list and costs. The bids should include details of the materials that would be used and a breakdown of what's to be repaired.
	Notify your insurance company or adjuster if you find additional damage that might have been overlooked or not detected during the initial damage assessment.
	Keep copies of all communications and information used during the claims process.
	Review your insurance coverage after your claim is settled. Make sure your coverage is adequate to cover future losses. Cheaper does not always equate to better coverage.

Other safety precautions and repair tips

	Avoid using electrical appliances including stereos and televisions that have been exposed to water until after they've been checked by a technician.
	Although Ohio law protects you from being sued by an individual who slips and falls on your property due to a natural accumulation of snow or ice, it's in your best interest and your family's to keep walkways and sidewalks as clear as possible.
	Parking in snow emergency areas when your community calls one will only guarantee you a ticket and towing charges.
	Avoid using salt on concrete less than a year old. A safe alternative is sand.

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