When it comes to insurance, terms and conditions can often be tricky to understand. One phrase that frequently arises, often leading to confusion, is the "act of god". But what does it mean? How do insurance companies deal with it? And more importantly, is your home covered under such circumstances?
What is the Term 'Act of God'?
An "act of god" refers to unforeseen circumstances caused by natural forces, like storms or earthquakes, that are beyond human control. It’s a term used in commercial contracts and insurance policies to describe events that are not caused by human actions and are typically unexpected.#
Insurance Claims and Acts of God
Many wonder if their standard home insurance policies cover acts of god. Typically, some insurance policies might not cover specific acts of god, like floods or earthquakes. This is where specialized insurance, like flood insurance, comes into play. In the wake of a natural disaster, many find themselves grappling with insurance claims tied to these unforeseen events. For example, while a lightning strike might be covered under many standard policies, storm damage caused by flooding might need a separate flood insurance policy.
Why Is It Significant?
Understanding act of god clauses in your insurance is vital. These clauses can dictate whether or not you will be compensated for damages caused by a natural event. Given the rising number of natural disasters around the world, it's essential to be clear on what your insurance policy covers.
The Grey Area
The boundary between what counts as an act of god and what doesn't can sometimes be blurry. Force majeure, a related concept, sometimes encompasses acts of god but can also include events like strikes or wars. Always read the fine print and discuss with your insurance provider to clarify any doubts.
In Conclusion
Insurance policies can be complicated, but understanding terms like "act of god" is crucial. Ensure you know what your policy covers and consider supplemental insurance if necessary.
Remember, always stay informed and be proactive. Knowing the intricacies of your insurance can be the difference between peace of mind and unforeseen challenges.
What should you do if an Act of God causes damage to your home?
If you suffer a loss or damage to your home caused by an Act of God, it is likely you will be able to claim for it. Making an insurance claim can be very difficult and time consuming and will put you and your family in a lot of stress. Oakleafe Claims professional Loss Assessors can take all of this away by managing every aspect of the Act of God insurance claim for you. As a multi-award-winning Insurance Claims management company, we know exactly what it takes to get you and your home on track and will fight your corner to get you the settlement you deserve.
Contact us today for your insurance claim needs.