Home Insurance and Windstorm Damage in Oklahoma City

Rick wasn’t expecting to spend his Saturday morning collecting roof shingles from his backyard, but that’s what spring in Oklahoma brings sometimes—windstorms strong enough to rearrange your roof like a jigsaw puzzle.

​A quick glance at his fence told the rest of the story: cracked posts, a downed panel, and a few bent metal garden chairs for good measure. His first thought wasn’t about repairs—it was about whether his home insurance would cover any of this.

In Oklahoma City, high winds are part of life. But what’s actually covered when it comes to wind damage? Let’s break it down in plain English.

get the best okc home insurance!

What Wind Damage Does Your Home Insurance Typically Cover?

Homeowners insurance policies in Oklahoma usually include windstorm damage as a named peril. That means if a strong wind damages your home or other structures on your property, your policy likely helps pay for repairs.


Covered wind damage might include:
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• Shingles or parts of the roof blown off
• Siding or brickwork damage
• Broken windows caused by wind or flying debris
• Fence panels or detached structures toppled over
• Outdoor items damaged by wind, such as awnings or grills

But before you assume everything is covered, there are a few fine print details worth knowing.

When Wind Damage Gets Tricky

While wind damage is often included, how it's handled depends on the specific policy language, deductibles, and the type of damage.

Here are some factors that complicate things:

Higher Wind/Hail Deductibles

Many insurers in Oklahoma apply a separate deductible for wind or hail events. Instead of your standard $1,000 deductible, you might have to pay a percentage of your home’s value—say, 1% to 2% of your dwelling coverage limit. That means for a $300,000 home, your deductible could be $3,000 to $6,000.

Maintenance Issues

If your roof was already old or poorly maintained, your claim might be reduced or denied. Insurers often evaluate whether the damage was caused solely by the storm or made worse by lack of upkeep.

Detached Structures May Have Limits

Your fence, shed, or detached garage might be covered, but usually under separate “Other Structures” coverage, which often caps out at 10% of your total dwelling limit unless you’ve increased it.

Personal Property in the Yard

That outdoor couch you splurged on last summer? If it flies off into the neighbor’s yard, it might not be covered—unless it was specifically listed or meets coverage requirements for outdoor personal property.

How to Strengthen Your Wind Coverage

You don’t have to wait for a tornado watch to prepare. There are steps you can take right now to give yourself peace of mind (and a better shot at a paid claim later).

Review Your Policy

Check how your insurer defines “windstorm,” what the deductible is, and whether any exclusions apply to your roof or other structures. Some policies may exclude cosmetic roof damage.

Upgrade Your Roof

A newer, impact-resistant roof may qualify you for better coverage and discounts. Plus, insurers are more likely to pay out when damage occurs to a roof that’s been maintained.

Add Scheduled Property

Got valuable outdoor items like grills, lawn equipment, or garden décor? Consider scheduling them for coverage.

Increase “Other Structures” LimitsIf you’ve added a fence, built a pergola, or installed a large shed in the past few years, it might be time to increase your other structures coverage amount.

What to Do After Wind Damage Hits

If you wake up to find roof shingles in the yard or your fence lying in the neighbor’s pool, here’s what to do:
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1. Document Everything
   Take photos and video before cleaning up. Document the damage clearly from multiple angles.
2. Prevent Further Damage
   If it’s safe, cover broken windows or exposed roof areas with tarps to prevent rain or additional issues.
3. Call Your Insurance Agent
   Don’t delay—file your claim quickly and ask for clarification on how your policy applies to the situation.
4. Get an Inspection
   You may need a professional to assess hidden damage, especially on the roof or attic area.

​Don’t Guess When It Comes to Windstorm Coverage

Wind damage is common across Oklahoma City, but that doesn’t mean your policy covers it the way you expect. Gaps in coverage, deductibles that surprise you, or exclusions hidden in the fine print can leave you footing the bill.

That’s why it’s smart to review your homeowners insurance before the next storm rolls in.
Oklahoma Insurance Professionals is an independent insurance agency located right here in Oklahoma City.

We’ll help you review your current policy, explain what’s actually covered, and help you find a better fit if you need it—whether you're dealing with roof damage, flying patio furniture, or windblown fences.

Reach out today to get a quote and talk with someone who knows how to protect your home from what Oklahoma weather throws your way.

get the best okc home insurance!

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Scott Godwin
Founder

Oklahoma Insurance Professionals LLC serves Oklahoma City and the surrounding Oklahoma communities by protecting the people we work with just like we protect our own family members. Home insurance, auto insurance, business insurance, and more. We can help you find the coverage you need. ​​​