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Power outages can lead to various challenges, including the loss of considerable quantities of food that spoils when it’s not refrigerated, especially if you have a large refrigerator or chest freezer. If such a situation arises, will your home insurance cover the loss? The experts at Senz Insurance Agency in Beloit, WI, can help clarify this for you.
What’s Covered?
Generally, homeowners’ policies cover food spoilage when a power outage results from a covered event, such as a fire or a lightning strike. You may or may not have to pay a deductible. Some insurance providers also cover spoilage when a power surge causes your refrigerator or freezer to malfunction.
Producing Documentation
If you decide to file a claim, you will need to provide evidence that you had purchased food and that a power outage occurred. Write down the items lost, photograph the spoiled food, and save your grocery receipts. Consider asking your power company for written confirmation of the outage.
Exceptions
Home insurance won’t cover spoiled food in some instances. For example, if your electric service was disconnected due to non-payment or your refrigerator halted due to mechanical failure. Coverage is likewise typically unavailable when an outage is caused by something within your control, such as cutting down a tree that falls on a power line.
Apart from a home insurance policy, there are other avenues to seek reimbursement if you lose food in a way that isn’t covered by your policy. Under certain circumstances, the loss may be covered by power utility companies, home or extended appliance warranties, or Wisconsin’s state food benefits program, FoodShare.
If you’re interested in ensuring your home insurance policy covers food spoilage or are looking for comprehensive home insurance coverage, the professionals at Senz Insurance Agency in Beloit, WI, are here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our offerings.
