👉 Most standard homeowners insurance covers sudden wind and hail damage but not flooding. Review your policy before summer storms hit to avoid surprises.
When the Storm Passes, Are You Protected?
Summer in Pennsylvania brings more than sunshine — it’s also prime time for hail, flash floods, windstorms, and lightning strikes. Once the skies clear, the big question is: Will your homeowners insurance step in when you need it most?
Many homeowners assume everything is covered after a storm. Unfortunately, gaps in coverage often appear just when repairs, replacements, or extra living costs pile up.
What Summer Storm Damage Is Covered — And What Isn’t?
Let’s break down common scenarios in a quick table:
| Damage Type | Typically Covered? | Why or Why Not? |
| Wind damage to roof/siding | ✅ Yes | Standard policies cover sudden, accidental wind damage. |
| Hail dents or broken skylights | ✅ Yes | Hail is usually included under “named perils.” |
| Tree falls on house | ✅ Yes | Structural damage is covered. The removal of the tree is not covered. |
| Basement flooding | ❌ No | Floods need a separate flood policy. |
| Lightning fire damage | ✅ Yes | Fires caused by lightning are covered. |
| Power surge damage to electronics | ⚠️ Sometimes | Some policies include this; others require add-ons. |
| Spoiled food during power outage | ⚠️ Sometimes | Often limited; check if you have “loss of use” coverage. |
Quick FAQ: Summer Storm Insurance Questions Answered
Q: If a tree is struck by lightning and falls on my house, is the removal covered by insurance?
A: Damage to your home caused by the fallen tree is typically covered. However, the removal of the tree itself is not — even if a crane is needed to get it out. Homeowners are often surprised to learn that this cost comes out of pocket, so be sure to review your policy and budget for potential removal expenses.
Q: Does my homeowners insurance cover basement flooding?
A: No — flooding is excluded. You’ll need separate flood insurance through FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program or a private insurer.
Q: Are power outages covered?
A: Damage caused by the storm (like a fallen tree) is covered, but the cost of spoiled groceries or hotel stays usually isn’t, unless you have extra “loss of use” or “additional living expense” coverage.
Q: Is my roof leak covered after a storm?
A: If the leak results from sudden storm damage, yes. If it’s due to old age or poor maintenance, it’s not.
Hidden Costs: Don’t Get Caught Off Guard
Many policies have higher deductibles for wind and hail. For example, your regular deductible may be $1,000, but your wind/hail deductible might be 1–2% of your home’s value — meaning you’d pay $3,000–$6,000 out of pocket before coverage kicks in.
Also, many homeowners don’t realize that the cost to rebuild has risen sharply in the past few years. Check that your dwelling coverage amount keeps up with local construction costs.
What to Do Before the Next Storm Hits
✅ Review Your Policy: Find your declarations page. Check dwelling coverage, personal property limits, deductible amounts, and whether you have replacement cost or actual cash value coverage.
✅ Document Everything: Take fresh photos or videos of your home and valuables. Store this record securely off-site or in cloud storage.
✅ Ask About Extras: Consider endorsements for flood insurance, surge protection, or additional living expenses. They cost less than most people think and close frustrating gaps.
✅ Update Your Inventory: Use a mobile app to log what you own, with receipts if possible. This saves headaches during a claim.
Bottom Line: Be Storm-Ready, Not Storm-Shocked
No one can stop summer storms, but you can protect your family from unpleasant surprises. Take time today to check your coverage. Talk to your Rothenberger Insurance agent about any gaps or questions — so when the next thunderstorm rolls through Berks County, you’ll rest easy knowing exactly what’s protected.
👉 Ready for a coverage check-up? Contact Rothenberger Insurance Services today.
