Does Home Insurance Cover Wind Damage and Downed Power Lines?

June 30, 2025

A windstorm has torn some siding off your house and damaged its roof. Power lines have fallen on your property, too. You’ll want to know if a windstorm and downed power lines are covered by your home insurance.

Yes, standard home insurance policies in Canada typically cover windstorm damage, including damage caused by strong winds, flying debris, and falling branches or trees. Coverage is usually more limited in the case of downed power lines.

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What counts as wind damage?

Several types of storms and natural disasters can lead to wind damage, and most homeowner policies provide coverage for events such as:

• Tornadoes
• Hurricanes
• Thunderstorms
• Hailstorms
• Microbursts
• Nor’easters

It’s important to know the limit of how your home insurance policy covers wind damage. Note that some home insurance policies may have separate deductibles for wind and hail damage.

How does home insurance cover wind damage?

Most homeowners' insurance policies include coverage for wind damage.

Your policy’s dwelling coverage helps pay for repairs or replacements for structural damage, including the roof, siding, or windows. Additionally, personal property coverage can help repair or replace belongings damaged by the wind. Policyholders should review their insurance details carefully to understand limits, deductibles, and exclusions.

For example, if a windstorm knocks a tree onto your house, your policy typically covers the cost of repairing the damage to your home. However, it likely won’t cover the cost of removing or replacing the fallen tree.

If a windstorm causes a tree or branch to fall onto your home or other insured structures, repairs to those structures are generally covered, and so is damage to your home's contents if water enters through openings created by the wind.

Named perils vs. comprehensive ‘all-risks’ policies

Named perils: If wind coverage is explicitly in your home insurance policy, your home and contents are protected against wind damage.

Comprehensive ‘all-risks’: This policy type provides broader coverage, protecting against all losses except those specifically excluded.

Does my insurance cover damage from a downed power line?

If a windstorm or falling tree causes a power line to come down and damages your home, your insurance policy may cover repairs to the affected areas, such as a burned-out electrical panel or damaged appliances.

Repairs to the actual power line are usually the responsibility of your utility provider. Always check with your insurance company to confirm coverage details.

FAQs about wind damage and home insurance coverage

Are there exclusions or limits to wind damage coverage?

Most home insurance policies exclude coverage for the removal or replacement of trees unless they damage a covered structure. Damage due to poor maintenance or neglect is also typically not covered by your home insurance policy. Note that coverage is also subject to policy limits and deductibles. You’ll need to check your home insurance policy to see if wind damage is automatically included or not.

How long does a wind damage insurance claim take to get approved?

It depends on the complexity of the claim. A straightforward claim can be processed in as little as 48 hours, while more complicated cases requiring detailed assessments can take several months.

Is damage to my satellite dish covered by a windstorm?

Unfortunately, damage to radio antennae or satellite dishes is typically excluded from wind damage coverage.

Does wind damage insurance cover my roof shingles?

Usually they are covered, but it also depends on their condition before the damage. If the shingles were near the end of their lifespan, the insurer may only cover a depreciated amount rather than the full replacement cost. Regular wear and tear are not covered by insurance.

What should I do to stay safe in a windstorm?

Shelter in a small, interior room on the lowest floor, such as a bathroom, closet, or hallway. Basements offer extra protection if available. Stay away from windows. Avoid downed power lines and do not touch electrical switches until a licensed electrician inspects your home.

How to submit a home insurance claim for wind damage

Document everything: Take pictures and make a list of all damaged items, including building materials like flooring.

Keep receipts: If your home is uninhabitable due to wind damage, save receipts for any additional living expenses.

Contact your insurer: Report the damage as soon as possible and follow your provider’s claims process.

By understanding your home insurance policy and taking proactive measures, you can ensure you’re well-prepared in the event of wind damage or a downed power line.