The Greater Seattle area has a unique climate and geography which makes some homeowners insurance coverages more important than others.
Rain
Seattle has a reputation for being rainy for good reason. Compared to other cities, there is not a large volume of rain, but it does rain often in the Fall, Winter and Spring. Home insurance covers certain water damage, however, in most cases, it does not cover damage from rain. This is because insurance companies expect a home to be watertight. If it is not, it is typically due to faulty construction or lack of maintenance, both of which are excluded, as are the slow leaks that often occur with water intrusion. The exception is if a covered loss, such as wind, creates an opening for the water.
Wind
The Greater Seattle Area does not experience hurricanes, and tornados are exceedingly rare. Wind speeds tend to top out at around 60 MPH, which is not strong enough to damage most homes. However, it is strong enough to topple trees, especially unhealthy trees and trees in rain-saturated soil. Fortunately, wind coverage, which will cover damage from a toppled tree, is automatically included with most homeowners insurance policies in Washington, and unlike other states, there typically is not a separate, higher, wind deductible.
Cold
The temperature in the Greater Seattle area is mild. Highs rarely exceed 90 degrees, and lows rarely dip below freezing. However, the area will experience freezing temperatures a few days a year that can cause plumbing to burst. It is therefore important to ensure that homes are heated in the winter, and all exposed plumbing is insulated. If a pipe bursts, it is generally covered under a home insurance policy, unless there is a water exclusion or limitation.
Flood
Flood damage (damage caused by groundwater) is commonly excluded under a home insurance policy. Separate flood insurance policies are available. One way to determine whether flood insurance is needed is to obtain a flood zone determination. If a home has a mortgage, the lender will determine whether a home is in a “special flood hazard area”, and if it is, they will require flood insurance. Special flood hazard areas are few and far between in the Greater Seattle area. If a home is not in a special flood hazard area, flood insurance can still be obtained at a reduced rate.
Earthquake
The Greater Seattle area was built over many faults which are capable of producing earthquakes registering 7 or more on the Richter scale. Further away is the Cascadia subduction zone, which is capable of an earthquake registering 9 or more on the Richter scale. Because of the earthquake risk, earthquakes are often excluded under a homeowners insurance policy. Separate earthquake insurance policies are available and recommended.
Landslide
There are certainly some areas in Greater Seattle that are prone to landslides. It depends on the slope and soil conditions. Landslides are typically excluded under a home insurance policy. When coverage is needed, it is usually for good reason, and that is why landslide coverage can be difficult to obtain. Before offering a coverage, underwriters will usually ask for a geotechnical survey.
Crime
In the Greater Seattle area, crime rates vary depending on location. Fortunately, theft coverage is usually automatically included with homeowners insurance, although theft can be excluded after filing too many theft claims.
Looking for Home Insurance in Greater Seattle? Contact Chris Elliott Insurance Agency!
Our Seattle insurance agency understands well the risks in the area, and will tailor our coverage recommendations accordingly. New to the Greater Seattle Area? Let us help you find the right Seattle homeowners insurance coverage for your new home.
