What's an Act of God?
Insurance can be so confusing. We get it. There is a boatload of industry terminology. While it is meant to provide clarity and definition for insurance concepts, it can leave you feeling a little lost. We're here to help!
Insurance is about having the right coverage in place in the event of a claim. When life happens, you want to be protected financially. Claims are either the result of human intervention or they are not. When your actions or activity precipitates covered damage, it's considered a liability claim. When the occurrence is outside your control and the result of natural causes, it's considered an Act of God.
Most homeowners insurance policies consider Acts of God to be floods, hurricanes, earthquakes, and fires that could not be prevented by reasonable foresight or care. For example, if there were damage from a fire in your home's attic caused by a lightning strike, it would be considered an Act of God. But if the fire started due to faulty wiring from your attic fan, it would not be an Act of God.
Are Acts of God Are Covered by Your Home Insurance?
Homeowners insurance covers damage from the most common Acts of God. Here are a few examples:
- Severe weather storms
- Hurricanes
- Derechos or straight-lined winds
- Wildfires
- Tornados
- Hail
- Lightning
What Types of Damage Are Not Covered by Your Standard Home Insurance?
Other natural disasters may require separate coverage outside your standard home insurance policy. For example, flooding is not covered by your standard home insurance policy. Flood insurance should be purchased separately if your home is at risk.
Fallen chimney and foundation damage in Louisa County, Va.caused by the 5.8-magnitude earthquake that hit eastern Virginia on Aug. 23, 2011. (Image credit: Virginia Department of Mines, Minerals, and Energy)
Virginia is also no stranger to the risk of earthquakes. Earthquake damage is considered an Act of God that is included in your Northern Neck Home Insurance but check your policy if you have home insurance through another company. Earthquakes are one of those natural disasters that are sometimes not covered by standard home insurance. You may be able to add earthquake coverage if you live in an area where your home is more at risk.
It's good to know your homeowners insurance covers the most common Acts of God, but it's still important to make sure you have adequate coverage for your home and property. Consult your local insurance expert annually to make needed changes, especially if you have completed a major home improvement, added a deck, swimming pool, or another project. You can also give us a call and, we're happy to help!
