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Hail damage: what insurance does it cover?
Hanover.When the weather turns crazy and hail the size of ping-pong balls falls from the sky, it can be quite an eye-opener. A hail storm can cause significant damage to both buildings and vehicles. In this case, the policy holder should definitely clarify when which insurance company will cover which damages.
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Hail damage: what to do in case of damage?
First, the injured party must take photos for the insurance company to document the damage. And then tell the insurance company immediately and truthfully about the damage. Items that have been damaged by hail must also be picked up, according to the consumer care center. Items can only be removed after consultation with the insurer. “However, the sources of danger must be eliminated and protected in such a way that no further damage occurs,” explain the experts at the consumer care center.
A leaky roof, for example, which was caused by the impact of large hailstones, should be repaired as a makeshift. If the basement was filled with water due to the accompanying storm, it should be drained to prevent further damage.
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The consumer center gives more advice on what those affected should do in case of hail damage:
- Contact the insurer and ask for instructions on how to proceed. For example, the insurer will say whether consumers should hire a craftsman themselves or whether the insurance company would like to send someone. The insurer’s statements must also be given in writing by those affected.
- The insurer will often send an “adjuster” to look at the damage: policyholders should know that this is not an independent adjuster, but is paid by the insurer and represents their interests.
- Repair and removal of damage: To avoid problems or misunderstandings with the craftsman, the order must be as precise as possible. It is important to regulate the scope of the order, the date of execution and the remuneration in a binding manner, preferably in writing. On the subject of cost estimates: If there is time, it may make sense to get multiple cost estimates. These should contain the services and materials required in as much detail as possible. The procedure should be discussed with the insurer.
Who pays for hail damage to the car?
If the car has been damaged by hail damage, comprehensive vehicle insurance will pay for it, even if there is comprehensive insurance. If you do not have at least partial comprehensive insurance, you are not entitled to benefits in the event of hail damage.
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Broken car windows are also taken. The damage caused by hail does not affect the non-loss premium of the all-risk insurance for the policyholder. The amount of damage is determined here by an appraiser. Additional payment by the insurance company: towing expenses in case of total loss and the replacement value less the deductible. There are also some insurance companies that will pay for a rental car.
How to protect your car from hail
- Choose a safe parking spot: park in the garage or drive under a bridge or into a gas station in an emergency.
- Never park under trees – branches could break off the tree and fall on the car in the storm.
- Protect the roof and hood of the car with a blanket or thick cardboard. However, car owners should make sure they are securely fastened due to strong winds.
Hail damage to the house: What insurance covers the damage?
According to the General Association of the German Insurance Industry (GDV), in the event of hail damage to a house, in most cases homeowner’s insurance covers the homeowner for the financial consequences of the property damage . This applies to damage to the roof, facade, doors or windows. However, there are also insurance policies without this protection. Here you should check with the insurer exactly what the residential building insurance covers, so as not to be in for an unpleasant surprise if the worst happens.
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However, the insurance coverage can be extended with additional elements of the contract, such as heavy rain or flooding. That’s what basic insurance is for. This is available as an add-on component to existing residential building or home contents insurance. Then, if the basement floods due to heavy rains caused by the storm, elemental insurance takes over, which must be purchased separately, in addition to building insurance and home insurance.
Damage inside the property, such as a destroyed facility, is covered by home contents insurance.
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