What Storm Damages Will Homeowner’s Policy Cover?

Mar. 15--Answers to homeowners' questions on storm-related insurance claims, by Howard Guttman, a public insurance adjuster with Paul Guttman & Co. Inc. in Valley Stream.

A tree fell and damaged my home. What will my homeowner's policy pay for?

Your insurance company should cover the damage under the wind damage clause, including damage to possessions.

We had to stay at a motel because our electricity was cut off when a tree fell on the power line. Is that cost covered?

If it was your tree that fell on your power line or otherwise caused damage that made the home unlivable,your policy may well pay for alternative accommodations while your home is being repaired. Check with your insurance agent.

The electricity went out in our neighborhood and is still off. I fear the food in the refrigerator is spoiled. Is the cost of replacing the food covered?

Some policies cover the cost of food spoilage, even if your home was part of a general power outage. Again, check your policy.

A tree in our yard fell, but it didn't damage the house. Does insurance cover the costs of removal?

Most policies offer limited coverage for removal, he said, though often not enough to cover the entire cost.

Our neighbor's tree fell onto our property, damaging our fence. Who would cover the cost of repair?

Your insurance company would likely cover the damages to your property.

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