Before you settle into your fall routine, it’s a smart idea to check how your home held up over the summer. Summer weather brings lots of sunshine, but it also brings risks that many homeowners overlook. From hailstorms and heavy rain to high winds and lightning strikes, summer storms can do some serious damage to your home.
As the season starts to wind down, it’s a great time to check for any damage and take a closer look at your homeowners insurance policy. Whether you’ve had a few intense storms roll through or just want to make sure you’re covered for next time, this guide will walk you through what to look for, when to file a claim, and why now is the right time to review your coverage.
What Kind of Damage Can Summer Weather Cause?
Summer storms can be unpredictable and powerful. They can cause everything from minor cosmetic issues to major structural damage. Here are a few of the most common types of damage we see during this season:
Hail Damage
Hail is one of the top causes of summer-related home insurance claims. It can damage your roof, dent your gutters, crack your siding, and even break windows.
What to look for:
- Dents in metal surfaces like gutters or AC units
- Cracked or missing shingles
- Small piles of roofing granules near downspouts
- Damage to windows, screens, or skylights
Even if you don’t see obvious damage, it’s a good idea to have a professional take a look. Sometimes, the impact is hidden but still serious.
Flooding and Heavy Rain
Flash flooding can happen fast during summer thunderstorms. It doesn’t take much water to do a lot of damage.
Common signs of water damage:
- Damp walls or carpets
- Musty odors
- Mold or mildew
- Cracks in your foundation
Keep in mind that most standard homeowners insurance policies do not cover flood damage. If you live in an area that’s at risk, even slightly, it’s worth looking into flood insurance.
Wind Damage
High winds can cause a lot of damage in a short amount of time. Loose shingles, fallen branches, and even damaged siding are all common after a strong storm.
Things to check:
- Shingles on the ground or flapping on the roof
- Siding that’s loose or cracked
- Fences that are leaning or damaged
- Large branches close to or on your roof
Lightning and Power Surges
Summer storms often come with heavy lightning. A direct strike or power surge can damage electronics or even start a fire.
What you might notice:
- Burn marks near outlets or electrical panels
- Electronics that suddenly stop working
- Tripped breakers or flickering lights
Should You File a Home Insurance Claim?
Not every issue means you need to file a claim, but ignoring storm damage can lead to bigger problems down the road. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
It probably makes sense to file a claim if:
- The repair cost is more than your deductible
- There’s visible structural damage
- You’ve taken photos and documented everything
- You want to be sure the issue doesn’t get worse over time
You might want to hold off if:
- The damage is minor and repairable for less than your deductible
- You’ve filed multiple claims in the past few years
- It’s something you can easily fix yourself, like reattaching a loose fence board
If you’re unsure, call your insurance agent. At Rollo Insurance, we help our clients figure out whether filing a claim is the right move so they can avoid unnecessary premium increases.
Why a Roof Inspection is a Smart Move
Your roof takes the brunt of summer weather, but not all damage is easy to see from the ground. Getting a roof inspection after a season of storms can save you a lot of money and stress later.
A professional roof inspection can:
- Spot hidden hail or wind damage
- Prevent leaks that lead to mold
- Give you documentation if you do need to file a claim
- Help you extend the life of your roof
Some insurance companies even require proof of damage from a certified inspector before they’ll approve a claim. It’s always better to be prepared.
Is Your Homeowners Insurance Still a Good Fit?
If you haven’t reviewed your homeowners policy in a while, now is a great time.
Here’s what you should check:
Dwelling Coverage
Make sure your policy covers the full cost to rebuild your home. Construction costs have gone up in recent years, and you don’t want to be caught short.
Roof Replacement Terms
Some policies pay for full roof replacement (replacement cost), while others only pay for the value of your current roof (actual cash value). The difference can be thousands of dollars.
Flood Coverage
Remember, most homeowners insurance doesn’t cover flooding. If your area is even at mild risk, flood insurance could be a smart add-on.
Wind and Hail Deductibles
Some policies have separate deductibles for wind or hail damage. Know what yours are so there are no surprises when it’s time to file a claim.
Personal Property Protection
Think about what you’ve added to your home this summer. Did you buy new patio furniture, electronics, or sporting equipment? Make sure your personal property coverage reflects those updates.
Rollo Insurance is Here to Help
At Rollo Insurance, we work with homeowners every day to make sure they’re protected before, during, and after a storm. If you’re not sure whether your home has damage or if your coverage is up to date, we’re happy to help.
We offer:
- Free policy reviews
- Guidance on filing claims
- Personalized coverage advice based on your needs
Don’t wait until a small issue becomes a big one. A quick review today could save you thousands down the road.
Final Thoughts
As summer winds down, take a little time to walk around your property, check your roof, and look for signs of damage. If anything seems off, get it checked out. And if you haven’t looked at your homeowners insurance policy in a while, now’s the time.
Want a second opinion on your coverage or help filing a claim? Contact Rollo Insurance. We’re here to make sure your home is ready for whatever comes next.
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