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 It was mid-April when Ben and Tasha heard the familiar roar of a storm barreling toward their Oklahoma City home. They had seen their fair share of thunderstorms, but this one brought golf ball-sized hail and 70 mph wind gusts. The next morning, their roof looked like it had been through a blender. Shingles were scattered in the yard, and a skylight had shattered from the hail. When they called their insurance company, they were shocked to learn that their policy didn’t include adequate hail coverage—and their deductible was much higher than expected. Spring storms are part of life in Oklahoma, especially in and around Oklahoma City, Norman, Edmond, and Moore. But while you can’t control the weather, you can control how prepared you are. If you’re a homeowner in Oklahoma, now is the time to review your insurance policy before storm season kicks into high gear. What Types of Storm Damage Are Typically Covered?Most standard homeowners insurance policies cover certain types of damage from spring storms, but it’s important to know where the coverage starts and where it ends. Wind DamageWind is one of the most common spring storm threats in Oklahoma. If strong winds rip shingles off your roof or send debris flying into your windows, your homeowners policy typically covers the cost to repair the structure. Hail DamageHail damage can be devastating in Oklahoma City. While many policies include hail damage coverage, it's often subject to higher deductibles—especially if you live in a high-risk ZIP code. Check whether your policy has a separate deductible for hail claims. Lightning StrikesLightning can cause fires or damage to your home's electrical systems. Homeowners insurance generally covers this type of damage. Fallen TreesIf a tree falls on your house due to a storm, that’s usually covered. But if the tree falls in the yard and doesn’t damage anything, your policy may not pay for removal. What Might Not Be Covered Without Additional Coverage?Even if you have a solid homeowners policy, some spring storm-related damage may not be covered without specific endorsements or add-ons. Flooding and Water BackupHeavy rains can overwhelm drainage systems. If water seeps into your basement or floods your home, standard policies won't cover it. You’ll need flood insurance for that—which is typically sold as a separate policy. Sewer or Drain BackupIf stormwater causes your sewer or sump pump to back up into your home, you’ll likely need a water backup endorsement to cover the resulting damage. Roof Damage from Wear and TearInsurance typically won’t cover damage to roofs that were already in poor condition before the storm. If your roof is old or neglected, claims may be denied or only partially paid. Your Deductible Type and AmountMany Oklahoma homeowners carry higher deductibles for wind and hail damage. Some policies use percentage-based deductibles instead of a flat dollar amount. For example, a 2% deductible on a $300,000 home means you’d pay $6,000 out of pocket before your insurance kicks in. Know what yours is ahead of time so you’re not caught off guard. Add-On Coverages Worth Considering in Oklahoma CitySome optional coverages can save you thousands if spring storms hit hard. Extended Replacement Cost CoverageThis increases your policy limits to cover the rising costs of materials and labor after a major storm, especially during busy storm seasons when costs surge. Debris RemovalNot all standard policies include generous coverage for removing fallen trees, collapsed structures, or broken fencing. Consider a debris removal rider if your yard is heavily treed. Equipment BreakdownSpring storms can fry HVAC systems and appliances. Equipment breakdown coverage can help with replacement costs if a surge damages them. Keep Your Policy UpdatedIf you've made home improvements recently—new roof, upgraded siding, or energy-efficient windows—let your insurance agent know. These upgrades may lower your premiums and give you access to discounts with many insurance providers. Don’t Wait Until It’s Too LateOne of the most common mistakes homeowners make is waiting until after a storm hits to realize their coverage has gaps. A quick policy review now can help you avoid claim denials and out-of-pocket surprises. How Oklahoma Insurance Professionals Can HelpAt Oklahoma Insurance Professionals, we know the specific weather risks that come with living in Oklahoma City and surrounding suburbs like Yukon, Mustang, Moore, Norman, and Edmond. We help homeowners get the right insurance policy, with the right coverage, from insurance companies that understand our local needs. If you're not sure what your current policy covers or want to explore more competitive options, we're here to guide you. Our team takes the time to explain your policy without the jargon, help you find additional coverages that make sense for your home, and even assist with claims if the time comes. Contact Oklahoma Insurance Professionals today to make sure you’re covered before the next big spring storm rolls through. Protecting your home starts with the right policy—and the right team behind it.
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