Who pays for storm damage?

When is a storm a storm?

As a rule, the following applies to the relevant insurance companies: A "storm" is present from wind force eight, i.e. from 62 kilometers per hour. You can find out whether this strength was reached on site from the German Weather Service, for example.

Who is responsible for damage to the house?

For example, if the storm has covered roof tiles or a tree has damaged the house, homeowners insurance is the right place to go. Storm damage is usually included in homeowners insurance, but you should check the fine print again.

And if things in the house were destroyed?

A broken roof can also quickly lead to damage to furnishings. Then household contents insurance is the right contact. Here, too, it makes sense to take a look at the small print to see exactly what your own contract covers. One thing is clear: anyone who simply left the window open cannot hope for compensation.

Who pays for storm damage to the car?

If your own car was damaged by a tree, branches or roof tiles, partial comprehensive insurance is the right contact, which covers damage from wind force eight. With comprehensive insurance, the customer has often agreed on a deductible. As a rule, you only get a higher rating if you were to blame for the damage.

What about a flooded basement?

Important: Normal building insurance does not cover such water damage. To do this, you must have what is known as elementary damage insurance.

Can I have to pay for someone else's storm damage?

That is possible. If you have not properly secured and checked your own roof or your own trees in the garden, you may be responsible for damage and then have to pay for it. The details of culpability are then often very controversial. In such cases, it is important to have liability insurance. A typical example is also the poorly secured flower pot on the tenant's balcony, which falls down and causes damage.

What should I watch out for after damage?

It is important to document the damage (take photos, make a list of the damaged items, look for witnesses, etc.) and report it to the insurance company as soon as possible. At the same time, you have to make sure that the damage is kept as low as possible. This is called "damage mitigation". If there is damage to the roof, for example, you should try to cover it up as quickly as possible.