Connecticut summers are increasingly marked by powerful storms, bringing risks like flooding, tornadoes, and damaging winds. As these weather events become more frequent and severe, understanding how your homeowners insurance policy—especially loss-of-use coverage—can protect you is essential for every resident.

• Storm Frequency and Severity: Recent years have seen a notable rise in intense summer storms across Connecticut, including microbursts, tornadoes, and catastrophic flooding[3][4][5]. For example, a single August storm dumped up to 16 inches of rain in Oxford, causing widespread damage and displacing families.
• Historical Context: While Connecticut is not typically known for tornadoes, more than 100 have struck the state in modern history, with the summer months (July and August) seeing the highest activity.
• Flooding Risk: About 15% of Connecticut properties face a greater than 26% chance of severe flooding over the next 30 years, making robust insurance coverage more important than ever.

Loss-of-use coverage (also known as Additional Living Expenses or ALE coverage) is a standard part of most homeowners’ insurance policies. It helps pay for extra costs you incur if your home becomes uninhabitable due to a covered peril, such as:

• Temporary housing (hotel stays, short-term rentals)
• Increased food expenses (eating out while displaced)
• Laundry, storage, and transportation costs

This coverage ensures you and your family can maintain your standard of living while your home is being repaired or rebuilt.

When a summer storm damages your home—whether from wind, rain, or flooding—loss-of-use coverage can be a financial lifeline. Here’s how it works:

• Immediate Relief: If your home is unsafe or unlivable after a storm, your policy can cover hotel bills or rental costs while repairs are underway.
• Covers Additional Expenses: It pays for the extra costs you wouldn’t normally have, such as eating out or commuting from a temporary location.
• Peace of Mind: You can focus on recovery, knowing your insurance is helping with the unexpected costs of displacement.

• Review Your Policy: Not all perils (like flooding) are covered by standard homeowners insurance. Flood insurance is often a separate policy—ask your agent if you’re protected against all relevant risks.
• Understand Coverage Limits: Loss-of-use coverage typically has a limit—often a percentage of your dwelling coverage. Make sure it’s enough to cover your potential needs.
• Document Everything: Keep receipts for all additional living expenses during your displacement. Insurers require documentation to reimburse you.
• Prepare Before Storms Hit: Update your emergency plan, know your policy details, and have your insurance agent’s contact information handy.

Nickerson Insurance Agency specializes in reliable homeowners insurance CT residents trust and understands the unique risks Connecticut residents face. Our experienced agents can help you:

• Assess your current coverage and recommend enhancements.
• Explain loss-of-use and other critical protections in plain language.
• Guide you through the claims process if disaster strikes.

Summer storms in Connecticut are unpredictable, but your response doesn’t have to be. With the right homeowners’ insurance and a clear understanding of loss-of-use coverage, you can weather any storm with confidence.

Contact Nickerson Insurance Agency today to review your policy and ensure you’re fully protected for whatever this summer brings.