Wind-driven Rain: What is it and do I need coverage? (2024)

FAQs

Wind-driven Rain: What is it and do I need coverage? ›

In most cases, homeowners insurance covers wind-driven rain damage to your roof if caused by a covered peril, such as a windstorm. However, coverage may be limited or excluded if the damage is due to wear and tear, lack of maintenance, or gradual deterioration.

Therefore, if the wind and rain induce damage, this is generally covered on your home insurance policy. However, the "wind-driven rain" stipulation may be utilized if your insurance agent discovers that your residence essentially led to the deterioration caused by the storm.

Wind-driven rain is the sudden and temporary entry of rain, snow, sleet or ice pushed into a building by wind. The water is pushed into the building without causing any exterior damage.

It is also a good idea to waterproof the exterior, and seal it with water-resistant paint that can protect your building against water damage. Vents, electrical outlets and other openings should be caulked and sealed while external drains, gutters, etc. should be cleaned and maintained regularly to prevent clogging.

Extend eaves off the roofs to direct rainwater several feet from the face of the building. Install recessed windows so that the exterior walls deflect water away from the windows. Install working shutters that when closed; protect the windows from wind-driven rain.

Most clients and customers would get confused about why their roofs are leaking right after they experienced a mild updraft and drizzle. This is what we call a wind driven roof leak, its best practice to bring in a roofing professional to inspect the shingle roofing system.

Sources for category 3 water include, but are not limited to, sewage; flooding from rivers or streams; Wind driven rain, water from beyond the toilet trap; water from the toilet bowl with feces; and standing water that has begun to support microbial growth.

It is based on the well-known semi- empirical driving rain relationship (driving rain intensity = coefficient * wind speed * horizontal rainfall intensity).

In most cases, homeowners insurance covers wind-driven rain damage to your roof if caused by a covered peril, such as a windstorm. However, coverage may be limited or excluded if the damage is due to wear and tear, lack of maintenance, or gradual deterioration.

Adjective. wind-driven (not comparable) (of ventilation) Occurring with the presence of a wind, although a rotary wind-driven ventilator on a vehicle can also be activated by movement of the vehicle.

What is the best protection from wind? ›

A windbreak will reduce wind speed for a distance of as much as 30 times the windbreak's height. But for maximum protection, plant your windbreak at a distance from your home of two to five times the mature height of the trees.

Wind-blown rain can enter attics through soffit vents during storms. Typical soffits have a fascia that is level with the bottom of the vent panel and vent perforations that face downward allowing rain water dripping down the fascia to be blown or drawn into the vent openings.

Definition of Wind-Driven Rain

Wind-driven rain occurs when strong winds force rainwater to infiltrate buildings through openings such as windows, doors, and gaps in the roof. This type of water intrusion can lead to extensive structural damage, mold growth, and costly repairs.

Flexi Says: The Southwest Monsoon brings heavy rains because it is a wind system that carries moisture-laden air from the Indian Ocean towards the land. When these warm, humid winds reach the land, they rise due to the heat and the geographical features like mountains.

Most air vent styles prevent direct intrusion of water. But some roof air vents sit fairly flat to the roof, with a mushroom style hood and unprotected sides. And on occasion a hard driving rain with whipping wind will cause roof vents to leak water.

It is based on the well-known semi- empirical driving rain relationship (driving rain intensity = coefficient * wind speed * horizontal rainfall intensity).

Most property insurance covers wind-related damages from hurricanes under the broader category of “windstorm.” Wind coverage may be excluded if you live in a coastal area at high-risk for tropical storms and hurricanes. Standard insurance policies do not cover flooding, including storm surge flooding.

Wind coverage—also known as windstorm insurance—covers damage to your home caused by high winds, such as: Hurricanes and tropical storms, Thunderstorms. Tornadoes. Hailstorms.