One of the benefits offered by most home insurance policies is debris removal. This benefit isn’t for the indiscriminate removal of items, branches and leaves lying around your property at any time of the year; it is about seeing debris as part of the damage caused by an insurable incident and helping to put you back into the position you were in before the incident caused the debris.
Here is some basic information you should know about your policy’s debris removal benefit:
- Debris must generally be caused by a covered event: If the event that causes the debris is one that your policy covers you for, then you can expect for debris removal to be included, up to the limits of your policy. In some cases, policies will allow for an additional percentage above the limits for debris removal—usually no more than 5 percent.
- Covered debris may be generated by certain other events, even if they do not directly damage the covered property: For example, a volcanic eruption and subsequent lava may not damage your home but if the ash from the eruption damages your property, then your policy may pay for the debris removal. Some policies will also cover the removal of hazardous materials, while others exclude it.
- Fallen trees may be covered: In certain circumstances, a policy may cover the cost of felled tree removal if it blocks a driveway or ramp, or has fallen on your structure. It may cover a tree that has fallen due to natural events such as hail or windstorm. This may carry a separate limit.
- Reasonable expenses: It is important to get a few quotes for debris removal and to go with a quote that offers a reasonable price. Your insurance policy likely limits the expenses covered to those considered reasonable.
If you aren’t sure what your
Oklahoma City Home Insurance policy protects in terms of debris removal, or you want to add additional coverage, give us a call at
ECI Agency today. We can work with you to create a policy that suits your family and your budget.