Severe storms, including tornadoes, can cause significant property damage, from hail-pelted roofs to fallen trees and flooded basements. Knowing what to do when storm damage occurs can help you protect your property, navigate insurance claims, and recover quickly. This guide covers common types of storm damage and provides practical steps to take before severe weather strikes.

Common Types of Storm Damage and What to Do

Hail Damage to Roofs or Vehicles

Roofs: Hail can crack or dislodge shingles, damage flashing, or cause leaks. After a storm, inspect your roof for missing shingles, holes, or dents in metal components. Avoid climbing onto a damaged roof; hire a professional roofer for a thorough assessment. Document the damage with photos and contact Marshfield Insurance to file a claim. Your homeowners policy typically covers hail damage, but confirm coverage details, including deductibles.

Vehicles: Hail can dent or crack car surfaces. Check for dents, chipped paint, or cracked windows. Take photos and note the storm’s date and time. File a claim under your auto policy’s comprehensive coverage, which usually includes hail damage. Marshfield Insurance can guide you through the process, including arranging for repairs at a trusted auto shop.

Tree Falling into Your Yard or Your Neighbor’s

Tree from Neighbor’s Yard Falls into Yours: If a neighbor’s tree falls onto your property due to a storm (not negligence), your homeowners insurance typically covers removal and repairs, subject to your deductible. Document the damage and contact Marshfield Insurance to file a claim. If the neighbor’s tree was visibly dead or hazardous, their insurance might cover it due to negligence—consult with Marshfield for advice.

Your Tree Falls into Neighbor’s Yard: If your healthy tree falls due to a storm, your neighbor’s insurance generally covers their damage. However, if your tree was known to be dead or unstable, you could be liable. Notify Marshfield Insurance immediately to discuss coverage and liability. Always document the scene and avoid disputes with neighbors until insurance adjusters assess the situation.
General Tips: For fallen trees, prioritize safety—avoid downed power lines or unstable branches. Marshfield Insurance can recommend professional tree removal services if covered under your policy.

Sump Pump Failure

Sump pump failure during heavy rain can lead to basement flooding, damaging floors, walls, and personal property. After a failure, turn off the pump’s power to avoid electrical hazards, remove standing water with a shop vac (if safe), and dry the area with fans or dehumidifiers to prevent mold. Document all damage with photos and keep receipts for cleanup costs. Check your Marshfield Insurance policy—standard homeowners policies often exclude flood-related sump pump failures, but you may have optional sewer and drain backup coverage. Contact Marshfield to confirm coverage and file a claim. If you lack backup coverage, consider adding it for future protection.

Other Common Storm Damage

Tornado Damage: Tornadoes can cause widespread destruction, including structural damage, broken windows, and debris impact. After ensuring safety, document all damage and contact Marshfield Insurance immediately. Most homeowners policies cover tornado damage, but review your policy for windstorm deductibles, which may apply in tornado-prone areas.

Wind Damage: High winds can tear off siding, shingles, or fences. Inspect your property, secure loose items, and file a claim with Marshfield for covered repairs.
Flooding from Heavy Rain: Standard homeowners policies exclude flood damage, but you may have flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or a private insurer. Contact Marshfield to verify coverage and file a claim. If uninsured, explore FEMA disaster assistance if your area is declared a federal disaster zone.

Power Surges from Lightning: Lightning strikes can damage electronics. Use surge protectors to minimize risk, and file a claim with Marshfield for covered equipment losses.

Ten Steps to Take Before Severe Storms

Preparing for severe storms, especially in tornado-prone areas, can reduce damage and streamline recovery. Here are ten proactive steps to take:

1. Review Your Insurance Policy: Contact Marshfield Insurance to confirm your homeowners and auto policies cover wind, hail, and tornado damage. Ask about optional coverages like sewer backup or flood insurance. Understand your deductibles and coverage limits.

2. Create a Home Inventory: Document your belongings with photos or video, noting high-value items. Store this inventory digitally in the cloud or with Marshfield Insurance for easy access during claims.

3. Strengthen Your Property: Trim trees near your home, secure loose outdoor items, and reinforce windows with storm shutters or plywood. Consider impact-resistant roofing materials if replacing your roof.

4. Prepare an Emergency Kit: Assemble a kit with water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, a first-aid kit, blankets, and important documents. Include a battery-powered weather radio for tornado alerts.

5. Designate a Safe Room: Identify a basement, storm shelter, or interior room on the lowest floor with no windows for tornado safety. Practice tornado drills with your family.

6. Maintain Your Sump Pump: Test your sump pump annually and install a battery backup to ensure it works during power outages. Clear debris from drainage systems to prevent clogs.

7. Install Surge Protectors: Use surge protectors for electronics and consider a whole-home surge protector to guard against lightning strikes.

8. Monitor Weather Alerts: Download a weather app or use a NOAA weather radio to stay informed about severe storm and tornado warnings. Sign up for local emergency alerts.

9. Secure Important Documents: Store insurance policies, IDs, and property deeds in a waterproof, fireproof safe or digitally with Marshfield Insurance.

10. Plan for Evacuation or Shelter: Know your community’s tornado shelter locations and evacuation routes. Ensure your car is fueled and your emergency kit is portable in case you need to leave quickly.

Final Tips

After any storm, prioritize safety—avoid downed power lines, unstable structures, or floodwaters. Contact Marshfield Insurance as soon as possible to report damage and start the claims process. Keep detailed records of all communications, repairs, and expenses. If you’re unsure about coverage or need help, Marshfield’s claims team is ready to assist.

By preparing ahead and acting quickly after a storm, you can protect your property and recover with confidence. For more information or to review your policy, visit Marshfield Insurance’s website or call our customer service team.