Does Boat Insurance Cover Storms and Lightning?
During boating season, storms and heavy winds can shake up your boat, whether it’s tied to the dock or out on the water. The result can be minor or major damage. Boat insurance helps protect your boat from this type of weather.
Boat insurance is the best way to protect your investment in your boat.
What if my boat gets struck by lightning?
Your marine insurance policy typically covers damage to your boat caused by lightning, but it’s important to read the details of your coverage.
A lightning strike can cause major damage, including electrical damage and hull damage.
The odds of your boat getting struck by lightning are usually low, but it can and does happen.
How to stay safe on a boat when there’s lightning
Get to land ASAP
- If you’re on the water during a lightning storm, you need to get back to land as soon as possible.
- Check the weather before going boating to avoid being caught in a lightning storm.
- If you’re on the water and the sky turns dark and it starts to rain, be cautious and head back to shore.
- If your boat has a cabin, get inside for protection.
- Lower any antennas or fishing rods.
What if my boat was damaged during a storm by high winds?
Windstorm damage is also usually covered under your boat insurance policy. Again, read your marine insurance policy.
My boat has been damaged by hail
Your boat insurance typically covers hail damage.
Be proactive after a storm
Any time there’s a major storm strong enough to potentially cause damage to your boat, you should immediately check the condition of your boat.
Usually, wind or hail will be the cause of damage, but even flying debris can cause damage to your boat. Whether your boat is kept at home or at a marina, you’ll need to know as soon as possible whether it has been damaged after a storm.
How to make a claim
Report your insured boat damage to your insurance provider.
You will be asked to confirm your policy details and provide up-to-date contact information.
You'll be asked to provide a description, in your own words, about what kind of damage the weather caused to your boat.
You will likely be contacted by an adjuster, who might also assign an additional expert to assist, such as an appraiser or contractor, depending on the type of claim.
How boat insurance protects your boat
Boat insurance covers such things as damage from vermin, wreckage removal, agreed value coverage, and liability coverage.
You can learn more about what marine insurance includes: https://westernfinancialgroup.ca/What-Does-Boat-Insurance-Include
