Cost-effective, versatile, and low-maintenance, siding is a popular choice for homeowners in Missouri. But despite its durability and long lifespan, siding sometimes falls prey to Mother Nature; storms can dent, crack, or even rip off your siding. And if your siding is damaged, it’s important to replace it promptly so that your home remains fully protected from the elements. But, you might wonder, does homeowners’ insurance cover siding? Let’s discuss . . .
You already pay for homeowners’ insurance โ don’t you want to make sure that you’re getting all you can out of it? Understanding your plan’s coverage is essential, as it helps you know when to make a claim and when to pay out of pocket. So, if you notice siding damage, your first question ought to be, “Does homeowners’ insurance cover siding?”
Does homeowners’ insurance cover siding?
The short answer? It depends. Homeowners’ insurance is designed to cover your home in the case of unforeseen events, like a ferocious thunderstorm battering your home with hail. That said, insurance varies from policy to policy. Some policies offer extensive coverage, while others are more limited. What you really want to know is whetherย yourย homeowners’ insurance covers siding (the answer is likely yes), and, more importantly, which specific perils are covered. The following perils are often covered by homeowners’ insurance:
- Wind Damage:ย Strong gusts of wind can rip shingles off your house. Wind-driven rain and snow may also cause damage and may also be covered under your insurance policy.
- Tornado Damage:ย The severe winds of a tornado can also pull your siding right off your home, or they may throw items against the house, leading to dents and cracks.
- Hail Damage: Hail is notorious for causing home damage, so it’s important that you check your roof and siding after a storm. You may notice dents, cracks, or holes in the siding.
- Fire Damage:ย Fire damage coverage is included in almost all homeowners’ insurance policies.
- Tree Damage:ย If a tree falls onto your home and damages the siding, it will likely be covered by your insurance.
As long as the siding damage is caused by one of the perils listed in your insurance policy, your insurer is responsible for paying for the repairs. They must replace the siding if it’s damaged beyond repair.
What if only one side of my home’s siding is damaged?
In some cases, this isn’t an issue at all. If the company that manufactured your siding still exists, you may be able to purchase the exact same product for a perfect match. However, if the product is no longer sold, you might end up with mismatched siding. In addition, if your home’s siding has faded, purchasing the exact same product will still result in a mismatch. Check to see if your insurance policy provides matching coverage; some do, but not all.
What types of damage are not covered?
The vast majority of insurance policies will not cover the typical wear and tear that occurs over the years. For example, if you notice that sunlight has been causing a gradual fade in color, don’t expect your insurance company to pay for replacement siding. Siding doesn’t last forever, and your insurer won’t cover siding that’s faded, rotted, or become worn out gradually over time. Your insurer also won’t cover damage caused by homeowner negligence.
What are my responsibilities as a homeowner when it comes to siding and insurance?
- Take good care of your home; insurance doesn’t cover neglect. Clean your vinyl siding regularly with a power washer.
- Keep an eye out for issues. Whether they’re covered by insurance or not, it’s important to address problems early so that they don’t escalate into bigger (and more expensive) problems.
- After severe weather events, walk around your home and look for damage. If you spot any, take photos of the damage and record the date and time of the weather event. Then, file an insurance claim ASAP.
- Review your insurance policy so that you understand what damage is covered. Ensure that your claim is valid before you file a claim.
_____
If youโre ready to replace your home’s vinyl siding, turn to the experts at Liberty Home Solutions. Weโre delighted to offer multiple vinyl siding options to our friends and neighbors in and around Springfield, MO. Our vinyl siding has a fade, peel, warp, and hail warranty to ensure your peace of mind. Contact us today to set up a free in-home estimate and explore the many possibilities.