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Emergency

Storm damage to the house: the building insurance won't pay?

Storm and hail are among the insured perils of residential building insurance. Whether it pays depends on the terms, the cause of the damage, and the insured's cooperation. What is important is quick reporting and good documentation.

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Your chances of getting your money back

Residential building insurance generally covers storm and hail damage. A storm is usually defined as a weather-related air movement from wind force 8. Insured are parts firmly connected to the building.
You have obligations: mitigate, report, and document the damage. If these are met, the chances of settlement are good. If the insurer refuses, it is worth examining the reasoning.

What you should do now

  1. 1

    1. Secure the damage

    Secure the damage site, prevent consequential damage, and take photos.

  2. 2

    2. Report the damage

    Report the damage to the insurer without delay and describe it precisely.

  3. 3

    3. Collect evidence

    Document the weather situation, the extent, and evidence of repairs.

  4. 4

    4. Examine in case of refusal

    Have a refusal reviewed against the terms and the cause of the damage.

How to spot the scam

  • The damage is reported too late.
  • Necessary measures to mitigate the damage are omitted.
  • The refusal relies on a questionable assessment of the cause.

Frequently asked questions

From when does the insurance pay in a storm?

Generally from wind force 8. If the wind force at the site cannot be precisely proven, it is often enough that corresponding damage occurred in the surrounding area. The specific insurance terms are decisive.

Which damage is insured?

Typically damage to parts firmly connected to the building, such as the roof, windows, or facade, caused by storm and hail. Damage to movable items falls under the household contents insurance. Check which policy is responsible for which damage.

What if the insurance doesn't pay?

Have the refusal checked against the terms. Frequent points of dispute are the cause of the damage, an alleged breach of obligation, or questions of delimitation. In case of justified doubts, you can object to the refusal in writing with reasons.

Take action now

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General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.