No matter where you live, a loss to your property can be unavoidable at times. If you own a structure, belongings, or a vehicle, the proper coverage is necessary to avoid financial ruin. When you file a claim through your Tennessee homeowners insurance, there are some things you'll need to know.

Fortunately, a Tennessee independent insurance agent can help you review your policies for free, ensuring no gaps. They'll even compare your rates so that you're getting a good deal. Connect with a local expert for tailored quotes today.

What Does Storm Insurance Cover in Tennessee?

Fire, theft, vandalism, and severe weather are automatically insured under your primary home insurance. Storms are a top concern, and are insured under property policies of all kinds. The majority of homeowners policies in Tennessee will be broken down like this:

• Dwelling limit: Pays for the replacement or repair of your home itself when a covered claim occurs.
• Personal property: Pays for the replacement or repair of your personal belongings.
• Personal liability: Pays for bodily injury, property damage, or slander claims against a household member.
• Additional living expenses: Pays for your temporary stay at another property when a claim renders your home unlivable. 
• Medical payments: Pays for the first $1,000 to $10,000 of a medical expense when a third party gets injured on your property.

Common Catastrophes That Occur in Tennessee

In Tennessee, 1,153,112,000 home insurance claims were paid last year You won't be able to avoid all losses, but you can prepare for the worst. Check out the top catastrophes in Tennessee:

• Severe storms and lightning
• Flooding and water damage
• Burglary and other property crimes
• Wildfires and residential fires
• Tornadoes

Will Homeowners Insurance Costs Increase after a Storm Claim?

Your homeowners insurance premiums will usually increase the following policy term after you report a loss, but it depends on whether the property, as well as the homeowner, has a history of claims.  Carriers use your claims history when determining your costs. Check out the items insurance companies use when calculating your costs:

• Location
• Replacement value
• Coverage limits
• Insurance score
• Prior claims reported

Most expensive hurricanes in the US, by insured property losses (in billion US dollars)

Storms are around every corner and could cause severe damage to your surroundings. The best defense to avoid a loss is by having the right policy in place ahead of time. 

Additional Coverage for Storm Damage in Tennessee

Your protection should start and end with full coverage against a storm. Unfortunately, your primary property policies will fall short for some losses. Take a peek at some coverage choices you'll have in Tennessee:

• Flood insurance: Pays for damage due to flooding to your home.
• Umbrella insurance: Pays for a liability claim when your underlying home policy limits have been exhausted.

How to File a Car Insurance Claim for Storm Damage in Tennessee

If your vehicle sustains loss from a storm, it's important to know what comes next. Your car policy will have a specific protocol it follows during a claim. 

Economic damage caused by tornadoes in the US (in million US dollars)

Check out these four simple steps for filing a car insurance claim when storm damage occurs:

• Step 1: Get to a safe place.
• Step 2: Call your independent insurance agent.
• Step 3: Obtain information from your agent on how to obtain a temporary replacement vehicle.
• Step 4: Set up a meeting with your assigned adjuster .

How a Tennessee Independent Insurance Agent Can Help

Property insurance is crucial if you want to avoid bankruptcy or worse. The cost to replace or repair your structure can be hefty. That's why it's vital to have your coverage reviewed by a trained professional.

Fortunately, a Tennessee independent insurance agent can help for free. They have a network of carrier options so that you are met with the best policy for a fair price. Get connected with a local expert on trustedchoice.com for custom savings today.