Homeowners Insurance in PA: How to Protect Your Home

In Pennsylvania, storm season doesn’t end with spring — it stretches through summer and even early fall.
Heavy rain, high winds, hail, and flash floods can all cause serious damage to homes across the state.
The best defense? A mix of preparation and the right homeowners insurance coverage.

At Unruh Insurance Agency, we want to help you stay protected. Here’s what you need to know about homeowners insurance in PA and how to mitigate risk during storm season.

1. Understand What Homeowners Insurance in PA Covers for Storm Damage

Not all policies cover every type of storm damage the same way. This is especially true if damage occurs because of a named storm. However, here is what you can expect from standard homeowners insurance in PA:

✅ Wind and hail damage are usually covered under standard PA homeowners insurance policies.

✅ Flood damage typically is not covered unless you have a separate flood insurance policy.

✅ Water backup from sewers or drains often requires an additional endorsement to your homeowners policy, such as Erie’s Sewer or Drain Backup Coverage or Extended Water Coverage.

Pro Tip: If it’s been more than a year since your last insurance review, now’s the time. Our team at Unruh Insurance Agency can help you make sure you’re properly covered.

2. Prepare Your Property Before Severe Weather Hits

Taking a few steps now to protect your property — and making sure you have the right homeowners insurance in PA — can make a big difference when severe weather strikes.

Inspect Your Roof and Siding

✅ Check for missing, cracked, or curled shingles.
Even small issues can lead to major water damage during heavy rain. If you spot damage, schedule repairs quickly.

✅ Examine siding and flashing.
Make sure siding panels are secure and flashing (the metal strips around windows, doors, and chimneys) is tightly sealed.

Speaking of roofing and siding, some ErieSecure Home bundles include siding and roofing restoration coverage.

Clear Gutters and Drains

✅ Remove leaves, sticks, and debris from gutters.
Clogged gutters can cause rainwater to overflow and damage your foundation or basement.

✅ Check that downspouts are directed at least 5-10 feet away from your home.
Use splash blocks or extenders if needed.

Trim Trees and Secure Outdoor Items

✅ Cut back dead or overhanging branches.
Branches can easily snap off in high winds and damage your roof, windows, or power lines.

✅ Anchor or store lightweight furniture, grills, and yard decorations.
High winds can turn unsecured items into dangerous projectiles.

Check Doors and Windows

✅ Inspect weather stripping and seals.
Strong winds and rain can find their way through small gaps around doors and windows. Replace worn-out seals to help prevent leaks.

✅ Consider installing storm shutters if your area is prone to strong winds or hail.

3. Make a Storm Safety Plan

Storms can develop quickly — be ready.
✅ Identify the safest place in your home to shelter during severe weather.

✅ Put together an emergency kit with flashlights, batteries, water, and first-aid supplies.

✅ Keep important documents (including your insurance paperwork) safe and easy to access.

4. Know the Steps for Filing an Insurance Claim

If your home suffers damage:

• Take clear photos of all affected areas before beginning any cleanup.
• Keep receipts for temporary repairs or expenses.
• Contact your insurance agent to start the claims process.

At Unruh, we know the claims process can seem complicated. That’s why we’re here to walk you through every step of filing a storm damage insurance claim.

Protect Your Home with the Right Homeowners Insurance in PA

Storms can be unpredictable — but your coverage shouldn’t be. Our team can help you review your current homeowners insurance and recommend any updates to keep you fully protected during Pennsylvania’s storm season.

📞 Call us today at 717-335-2929 or request a free policy review by clicking here.

If you are not currently a client, we’d love to see what we can do for you. You can request a quote below.

Stay safe — and know we’re here when you need us.