Is wind covered on a homeowners policy?
Short answer. Yes, on nearly every standard homeowners policy: windstorm is a covered peril on the common HO-3 form as well as on HO-5, HO-2 and HO-8 forms, and basic dwelling fire policies can add it. The exceptions are policies with a windstorm exclusion endorsement, which some coastal homeowners carry with wind bought separately, and losses the policy treats as wear rather than wind.
How each policy form treats wind
- HO-3, the most common: covers the dwelling against all risks not excluded, and windstorm is not excluded. Personal property is covered for named perils, including windstorm or hail.
- HO-5: broader coverage for both the house and belongings, wind included.
- HO-2: named perils, with windstorm or hail on the list.
- HO-8: for older homes, named perils including windstorm, usually paid at actual cash value or a modified basis.
- Dwelling fire forms: wind is often an add-on called extended coverage. Check that it is listed.
Where wind coverage can be missing
Some policies, mostly in coastal areas, carry a windstorm or hail exclusion endorsement, with wind insured separately. The declarations page or endorsement list will show it. Inland North Georgia policies rarely exclude wind, but check if you bought a low-cost or nonstandard policy.
What wind coverage does not include
- Wear: shingles that fail because the sealant aged out or nails were placed wrong.
- Rain with no opening: water driven through intact vents or under old flashing.
- Flood and storm surge.
The deductible that applies
Many Georgia policies set a separate wind and hail deductible, often a percentage of the dwelling limit, and coastal policies may add a hurricane deductible. Know both in dollars.
More: wind damage roof claims and wind and hail deductibles.