What Washington Homeowners and Business Owners Should Know About Windstorm Damage and Insurance Claim Denials
In recent years, Washington homeowners and business owners have seen a sharp uptick in wind-related damage—as NOAA data shows the annual average of billion-dollar weather and climate disasters in our state has jumped from 0.8 events per year (1980–2024) to 2.2 events per year (2020–2024). From downed trees to torn-off roofs, the aftermath can be costly. But what happens when the storm passes and your insurance company doesn’t show up the way it should?
Windstorms Are Hitting Harder Than Ever
Fall and winter storms are bringing stronger wind gusts with each passing year. According to a recent Fox 13 Seattle article, a powerful windstorm in Issaquah toppled trees onto homes and cut power to thousands. Several homeowners reported facing major hurdles with insurance coverage after the damage, including one family who had to turn to crowdfunding to pay for repairs after their insurer claimed only “two trees” were covered by their policy. These aren’t rare, one-off events anymore—they’re becoming the norm. And for property owners, that means more risk, more damage, and more reliance on insurance.
When Insurers Don’t Hold Up Their End
You pay your premiums expecting coverage when it counts. But many policyholders find themselves battling their insurance company instead of rebuilding.
Common insurance company tactics after windstorm claims include:
- Delaying payments or investigations without clear cause
- Denying claims based on vague or confusing policy language
- Offering settlements that don’t come close to actual repair costs
These actions may constitute bad faith under Washington law. If your insurer is using stalling tactics or lowballing your damage, you have the right to push back.
What to Do After Wind Damage
- Document everything: Take photos of the damage, keep receipts, and record all communication with your insurer.
- Understand your policy: Review what’s covered and what isn’t, especially around windstorm and tree damage.
- Act quickly: Many policies have deadlines for filing claims.
- Talk to a legal team: An attorney can help ensure your claim is handled fairly and pursue compensation if your insurer acts in bad faith.
How Bastion Law Can Help
We stand up for Washington homeowners and business owners when insurance companies fail to deliver. From reviewing your policy to taking legal action under the Insurance Fair Conduct Act, we bring the experience and resolve needed to make insurers pay what they owe.
If your windstorm claim has been denied, delayed, or underpaid, contact Bastion Law. We’ll make sure you get the coverage and respect you deserve.