Compare Home Insurance Quotes (2026 Guide)

A heat wave occurs when temperatures rise for an extended period of time — usually more than 10 degrees over a few days. While a heatwave might not damage a home as directly as a tornado, extended exposure to high temperatures may warp roofing materials and overwork HVAC systems, increasing the risk of malfunction or fire.

Extreme cold and freezing temperatures have the potential to damage roofing materials, leading to leaks and structural damage. Freezing temperatures can also cause frozen and burst pipes, especially in older homes. If you live in an area prone to prolonged freezing conditions, you may face higher insurance costs due to the frequent occurrence of these costly claims.

Severe storms can bring heavy rain, lightning and flooding, all of which have the potential to seriously damage a home’s exterior structure and foundation. Residents who live in an area where more intense storms are common should expect to pay more for insurance.

A tornado is a strong, fast-moving column of air that extends from a thunderstorm on the ground. Tornadoes can cause catastrophic damage to homes by ripping off roofs — and some are even strong enough to destroy entire structures. If you live in the Great Plains, you may pay a higher rate for insurance, as most tornadoes in the United States occur in this area.

A wildfire is an out-of-control forest fire that extends into residential areas. The potential for fire damage to destroy an entire home and its surrounding property, combined with the costs of rebuilding in wildfire-prone areas, results in higher insurance premiums for homeowners.

A cold wave occurs when the temperature rapidly drops in one location within 24 hours, with abnormal temperature dips varying by location. Cold waves exacerbate the risks of frozen pipes and freezing water damage, which is expensive to repair.

An ice storm occurs when a standard winter storm is combined with freezing rain — not cold enough to hail and not warm enough to rain. Heavy ice accumulation on power lines and tree limbs often results in widespread infrastructure damage, which can affect homes through fires and collapsing trees. These storms also cause damage to roofs with buildup.

From snowy showers to freezing temperatures, the umbrella of winter weather encompasses a range of weather patterns that can cause flooding and freezing damage. Homeowners in area with frequent or prolonged winter weather may pay higher insurance rates because these storms have the potential to cause expensive damage.

Wherever lighting strikes, there is the potential for significant damage. Lightning has the potential to damage residential properties in indirect ways — like by causing power surges or falling trees. Some severe lightning strikes may also ignite residential fires, making them especially risky.

Hurricanes are extreme tropical storms that come with high-speed winds, storm surges and heavy rainfall — which cause the most damage out of all natural disasters. Homes along the Gulf Coast or Atlantic Ocean are more at-risk of being on the receiving end of these destructive storms.

Strong winds alone, or those without the presence of a storm, can cause damage to your home by ripping off shingles and siding. Winds can also lead to falling trees or debris, which may cause further property damage. Since wind-related damage can become costly to repair, insurance companies may increase home insurance premiums as a result.

Hail is a type of solid precipitation that can cause damage and dents in roofing, siding and windows. Hailstone damage often requires immediate repair to prevent leaks or structural issues, which can lead to higher repair costs for the damage.

Coastal flooding happens when high tides or storm surges bring water from the ocean in-land. Water damage from coastal flooding can be significant, and many insurance companies do not cover it as a standard inclusion.

Avalanches occur when snow and debris rush downhill, damaging homes in the path of debris. Homes in mountainous areas with a history of avalanches are at a higher risk of seeing water- or snow-related damage after an avalanche.

Droughts are abnormally long periods without rainfall, often caused by high temperatures. These periods of intense heat can cause soil to contract, leading to cracked foundations and structural issues in homes.

Earthquakes can cause intense shaking, leading to structural damage within the home like cracked walls and damaged foundations. Homes near fault lines or in areas with frequent seismic activity are at high risk for significant damage. Most homeowners insurance companies charge a separate premium for earthquake insurance.

Landslides involve the movement of earth and rocks down a slope, which can sweep away or severely damage homes caught in their path. Properties located in hilly or mountainous regions are particularly vulnerable, and homeowners in these areas may require a landslide rider.

Riverine flooding occurs when rivers overflow due to excessive rain or snowmelt, forcing water from the natural boundary. Homes in floodplains are at risk of serious water damage to their foundations — and like coastal flooding, this destructive water is usually not covered under standard insurance policies.

Tsunamis are large waves caused by undersea earthquakes or volcanic eruptions, which can devastate coastal communities. The immense water force can destroy homes and infrastructure completely, significantly raising insurance premiums in areas with a history of strong tsunami activity.

Active volcanoes are an extreme and unpredictable hazard, able to cause the total destruction of nearby properties. If your home is close to a volcano, expect to pay significantly more for your premium. You may also require a separate volcano damage rider.