Tree Limb Fall due to Wind or Other Cause?

We provide Homeowner's coverage to our insured under AAIS Form 3 Ed 2.0. The Dec Page indicates the deductible is $1,000 except for the perils of wind and hail and for these perils the deductible is 2 % of coverage A limit or $3,500. Our insured is reporting during a recent wind/rain event that a limb fell from an oak tree on insured premises damaging insured's roof and facia board. Our question is concerning which deductible would apply –the $1,000 or the 2 %? It appears obvious the limb would not have fallen in the absence of the wind event, but we could not say this with 100% certainty. This home is located in the path Katrina hit in 2005.

In the past, we have seen policies that exclude wind damage to fences, outdoor equipment, awnings, etc., and in similar situations, under those policies it was argued the cause of loss was not wind but falling objects.

This premium content is locked for FC&S Coverage Interpretation Subscribers

Enjoy unlimited access to the trusted solution for successful interpretation and analyses of complex insurance policies.

  • Quality content from industry experts with over 60 years insurance experience, combined
  • Customizable alerts of changes in relevant policies and trends
  • Search and navigate Q&As to find answers to your specific questions
  • Filter by article, discussion, analysis and more to find the exact information you’re looking for
  • Continually updated to bring you the latest reports, trending topics, and coverage analysis