How to Protect Your Home During California Winter Storms: What Your Insurance Covers (And What It Doesn't)

When most people think of natural disaster insurance in California, they think earthquakes and wildfires. But winter storms cause millions of dollars in home damage across Southern California every year—and most homeowners don't understand what their insurance actually covers until it's too late.

This week's atmospheric river systems brought heavy rain, high winds, and flooding to parts of Orange County. At Pinoy General Insurance, we've already received a dozen claims calls, and we're seeing the same patterns we see every winter: preventable damage that could have been avoided with basic preparation, and surprised homeowners who assumed their insurance covered everything.

This guide breaks down exactly what your homeowners insurance covers during winter storms, what it doesn't, and the specific steps Cerritos and Orange County homeowners should take right now to protect their property.

What Your Homeowners Insurance Actually Covers

Let's start with the good news. Standard homeowners insurance (HO-3 policy, which most California homeowners have) covers several types of storm-related damage:

Wind Damage ✓

Your policy covers damage caused by windstorms, including:

• Roof damage (missing shingles, structural damage)

• Broken windows from wind-blown debris

• Downed trees or branches that damage your house, fence, or detached structures

• Damage to your home's siding or exterior

Real example: Last January, a Cerritos homeowner had a large branch fall on their roof during 45 mph winds, creating a hole and interior water damage. Their insurance covered the roof repair ($8,200), interior repairs ($3,400), and temporary living expenses while repairs were made. Total claim: $12,800. Out-of-pocket cost to homeowner: $1,000 deductible.

Rain and Hail Damage ✓

If rain enters your home through wind-damaged areas (broken window, damaged roof), the interior damage is covered. Hail damage to your roof, siding, and windows is also covered.

Important distinction: The rain must enter through storm-damaged openings. If rain seeps in through an existing gap you never fixed, that's maintenance neglect, and your claim will likely be denied.

Falling Objects ✓

Trees, branches, power lines, or debris that fall and damage your property are covered—even if the tree was healthy and the storm was the only cause.

Myth buster: Many homeowners think their insurance won't cover a neighbor's tree that falls on their property. Wrong. Your insurance covers damage to your property regardless of whose tree it was. Your insurance company may then pursue the neighbor's insurance if the tree was diseased or neglected, but that's between insurers—you get paid regardless.

Loss of Use / Additional Living Expenses ✓

If your home becomes uninhabitable due to covered storm damage, your policy pays for:

• Hotel or temporary rental housing

• Meals (if you can't use your kitchen)

• Storage for your belongings during repairs

This coverage typically lasts until your home is repaired or until you reach your policy limit (commonly 20% of your dwelling coverage).

What Your Homeowners Insurance Does NOT Cover

Here's where most homeowners get surprised. These storm-related damages are not covered by standard homeowners insurance:

Flooding ✗

This is the big one. Homeowners insurance does not cover flooding—defined as water that rises from the ground and enters your home.

This includes:

• Street flooding that enters your home

• Overflowing rivers, creeks, or channels

• Storm surge

• Water backup from overwhelmed storm drains

Real example: During heavy rains in February 2024, a home in Artesia experienced street flooding that brought 4 inches of water into the first floor. Damage estimate: $31,000. Insurance payout: $0. The homeowner didn't have flood insurance.

The solution: Separate flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or private flood carriers. Cost in Cerritos typically ranges from $400-$1,200/year depending on your flood zone.

Even if you're not in a high-risk flood zone, consider flood insurance. 25% of flood claims come from moderate-to-low risk areas. We've seen properties in Cerritos flood that were never expected to.

Sewer and Water Backup ✗

If heavy rains overwhelm the municipal sewer system and sewage backs up into your home through drains, toilets, or pipes—that's not covered by standard homeowners insurance.

The solution: Sewer and water backup endorsement. Cost: typically $40-$100/year for $10,000-$25,000 in coverage. Given that the average backup claim is $7,000-$12,000, this is one of the best insurance values available.

Neglected Maintenance Damage ✗

Insurance covers sudden, accidental damage—not damage from deferred maintenance.

Examples of denied claims we've seen:

• Rain entering through a roof that was 25+ years old and overdue for replacement

• Water damage from gutters that were clogged for months and caused overflow

• Leaks from windows with deteriorated seals that the homeowner knew about but never fixed

The key question insurers ask: Was the damage caused by the storm, or was the storm just the final trigger for an existing problem?

If your roof was already in poor condition and a moderate storm causes it to leak, expect a denied claim or reduced payout. If your roof was in good condition and a severe storm causes damage, you're covered.

The solution: Document preventive maintenance. Take photos of your roof, gutters, seals, and drainage after each cleaning or inspection. If a claim happens, you have proof you maintained the property properly.

Mold (Except in Specific Circumstances) ✗

Mold resulting from flooding or long-term moisture problems is generally not covered. However, if mold develops as a direct result of covered storm damage (like a wind-damaged roof that lets in rain), limited mold remediation may be covered—typically capped at $5,000-$10,000.

The critical factor: You must report and repair storm damage promptly. If you delay repairs and mold develops, the insurance company can argue you failed to mitigate damages, and deny the mold claim.

Landscaping (Limited Coverage) ⚠

Standard homeowners policies cover trees, shrubs, and landscaping damaged by wind, lightning, or falling objects—but only up to 5% of your dwelling coverage, with per-item limits of $500-$1,000.

If you have $500,000 in dwelling coverage, you have $25,000 in landscaping coverage total—but each tree is capped at $500-$1,000 depending on your policy.

Expensive landscaping may require separate coverage or higher limits through an endorsement.

The 7 Steps Every Cerritos Homeowner Should Take Before the Next Storm

Prevention is cheaper than repairs. Here's what to do right now:

1. Clean Your Gutters and Downspouts

Clogged gutters cause water to overflow and pool near your foundation, leading to water intrusion, foundation damage, and landscaping erosion.

When to do it: Before storm season (October-November) and mid-season (January). In areas with heavy tree coverage, clean them quarterly.

Why it matters for insurance: If water damage occurs because gutters were clogged, your claim can be denied for neglected maintenance.

Cost to hire a professional: $100-$200 for average home.

2. Inspect and Repair Your Roof

Check for:

• Missing, cracked, or curled shingles

• Damaged or missing flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights

• Sagging areas that indicate structural issues

• Moss or algae growth (indicates moisture retention)

When to do it: Annually, preferably in early fall before rains begin.

California-specific note: Most insurance companies will not renew policies on homes with roofs older than 20-25 years, or will require inspection and certification. If your roof is 15+ years old, budget for replacement within 5 years.

Cost: Professional roof inspection: $200-$400. Minor repairs: $300-$1,500. Full replacement: $8,000-$25,000 depending on size and materials.

3. Trim Trees and Remove Dead Branches

High winds can turn branches into projectiles. Dead or diseased trees are especially vulnerable to falling.

Focus on:

• Trees within falling distance of your home, garage, or fence

• Branches overhanging your roof (they scrape shingles and clog gutters)

• Trees near power lines (contact your utility company for removal)

When to do it: Late summer/early fall before storm season.

Cost: $200-$800 per tree for professional trimming, $500-$3,000 for removal depending on size and location.

4. Check Your Drainage and Grading

Water should flow away from your home's foundation, not toward it.

Walk around your property during a rainstorm (or use a hose to simulate rain). Look for:

• Water pooling near the foundation

• Soil erosion that creates channels toward the house

• Clogged or broken drain systems

The fix: Regrade soil to slope away from the foundation (minimum 6 inches of drop over 10 feet). Install French drains or drainage channels if necessary.

Why it matters: Foundation water intrusion is one of the most expensive home repairs ($5,000-$30,000+) and is often not covered by insurance if caused by poor drainage.

Cost: DIY regrading: $50-$200 for soil and materials. Professional drainage installation: $1,000-$5,000 depending on complexity.

5. Seal Windows and Doors

Check weatherstripping and caulking around:

• All exterior windows

• Entry doors and garage doors

• Utility penetrations (pipes, vents, cables)

Test: Hold a lit incense stick near seals on a windy day. If smoke wavers, you have air (and water) infiltration.

Cost: DIY caulking and weatherstripping: $20-$100. Professional sealing: $200-$600.

6. Inspect Sump Pumps and Drainage Systems

If your home has a sump pump, test it before storm season:

• Pour water into the sump pit to trigger the pump

• Verify the pump activates and drains properly

• Check the discharge pipe to ensure it directs water away from the foundation

Backup power: Consider a battery backup sump pump ($200-$500) for power outages during storms.

Why it matters: A failed sump pump during heavy rain can cause thousands in water damage—and it's preventable.

7. Document Your Home's Condition

Take photos and videos of:

• Your roof (from ground level and from a ladder if safe)

• Gutters and downspouts

• Exterior walls, windows, and doors

• Landscaping and trees

• Interior rooms (to establish pre-storm condition)

Store these in cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox, iCloud) so they're accessible even if your devices are damaged.

Why it matters: If you file a storm damage claim, you'll need to prove the damage was caused by the storm, not pre-existing conditions. "Before" photos are critical evidence.

What to Do If Storm Damage Occurs

If your home sustains storm damage, follow these steps to protect your insurance claim:

Immediate Actions (First 24 Hours)

1. Ensure safety first

• Evacuate if there's structural damage or flooding

• Turn off electricity if there's water intrusion

• Avoid downed power lines

2. Prevent further damage (duty to mitigate)

• Cover broken windows or roof damage with tarps

• Move belongings away from water

• Use towels or buckets to contain leaks

Your insurance policy requires you to take reasonable steps to prevent additional damage. Failure to mitigate can result in denied coverage for secondary damage.

3. Document everything

• Take photos and videos of all damage from multiple angles

• Don't throw away damaged items until the adjuster sees them

• Keep receipts for any emergency repairs or mitigation costs (tarps, water extraction, etc.)—these are often reimbursable

4. Contact your insurance company within 24-48 hours

Most policies require "prompt" notice of loss. While there's no exact deadline, waiting weeks can complicate your claim.

When you call, you'll be asked:

• Your policy number

• Date and time of the damage

• Type and extent of damage

• Whether emergency repairs are needed

5. Get temporary repairs done (if necessary)

Don't wait for the adjuster to approve emergency repairs like tarping a roof or extracting water. Your policy's "duty to mitigate" requires you to prevent further damage.

Save all receipts—emergency mitigation costs are typically covered.

Working With the Insurance Adjuster

The adjuster will inspect your property, assess damage, and determine what's covered. Here's how to prepare:

Before the adjuster arrives:

• Organize your documentation (photos, videos, receipts)

• Create a written list of all damaged items and areas

• Have your policy handy to reference coverage

During the inspection:

• Walk through the property with the adjuster

• Point out all damage, even minor issues

• Ask questions about coverage and claims process

• Take notes on what the adjuster says

After the inspection:

• You'll receive a damage estimate and settlement offer

• Review it carefully—you can dispute lowball estimates

• Get your own contractor estimates if the adjuster's seems low

Important: You are not required to use the insurance company's "preferred contractors." You can hire your own contractors and submit their estimates for reimbursement.

If Your Claim Is Denied or Underpaid

If your claim is denied or the settlement seems insufficient:

1. Request a written explanation: The insurance company must explain in writing why they denied coverage or reduced the settlement.

2. Review your policy: Confirm whether their reasoning aligns with your policy's terms. Many denials are based on exclusions that don't actually apply.

3. Get a second opinion: Have an independent contractor or public adjuster assess the damage. Public adjusters work for you (not the insurance company) and can re-evaluate claims for a fee (typically 10-15% of the settlement).

4. File an appeal: Most insurance companies have an internal appeals process. Submit additional documentation, contractor estimates, or expert opinions supporting your claim.

5. Contact the California Department of Insurance: If the insurance company is acting in bad faith, you can file a complaint with the state regulator at insurance.ca.gov.

6. Consider legal action: For large claims or clear bad faith denials, consult an attorney who specializes in insurance claims.

California-Specific Winter Storm Risks for Cerritos and Orange County

Southern California's winter weather brings unique challenges:

Atmospheric Rivers

These intense moisture systems can dump 3-6 inches of rain in 24-48 hours. Urban flooding becomes likely when drainage systems are overwhelmed.

Risk areas in Cerritos: Properties near Coyote Creek, lower-elevation areas near Artesia Boulevard, and older neighborhoods with outdated storm drains.

Preparation: Know your property's flood zone (check FEMA maps at msc.fema.gov). If you're in a moderate or high-risk zone, buy flood insurance now—there's a 30-day waiting period before coverage begins.

Santa Ana Winds + Rain

High winds followed by rain create compound risks: wind damage, followed by water intrusion through damaged areas.

Preparation: Secure outdoor furniture, grills, and decorations before wind events. Inspect and repair any wind damage before the next rain system arrives.

Mudslides and Erosion

While less common in flat areas like Cerritos, properties near hillsides or slopes can experience erosion and water channeling during heavy rain.

Preparation: Install drainage systems that redirect water away from slopes. Consider retaining walls if erosion is a recurring issue.

Urban Flooding from Overwhelmed Drains

Cerritos and surrounding cities have aging storm drain infrastructure. When drains can't handle heavy rainfall, street flooding occurs—and can enter homes.

Preparation: Identify the storm drains near your property and keep them clear of debris. If you notice chronic street flooding, report it to the city's public works department.

How to Review Your Insurance Coverage Before the Next Storm

Don't wait for damage to discover you're underinsured. Here's what to check:

1. Dwelling Coverage Amount

This is the amount your insurance will pay to rebuild your home. It should reflect current construction costs, not your home's market value or purchase price.

Red flag: If your dwelling coverage hasn't increased in 3+ years, you're likely underinsured. Construction costs in California increased 18-25% from 2020-2024.

Solution: Request a replacement cost evaluation from your insurance agent. Update your dwelling coverage to match current rebuild costs.

2. Deductible Amount

Your deductible is what you pay out-of-pocket before insurance coverage begins.

Common deductibles: $1,000, $2,500, or $5,000

Strategy: Set your deductible at the highest amount you can comfortably afford in an emergency. Use the premium savings to build an emergency fund.

Example: Increasing your deductible from $1,000 to $2,500 can reduce your annual premium by $200-$350. Over 5 years, you save $1,000-$1,750—enough to offset the higher deductible if a claim occurs.

3. Flood Insurance

If you're in a FEMA-designated flood zone, your mortgage lender likely requires flood insurance. If you're not in a high-risk zone, it's optional—but highly recommended.

Cost in Cerritos (moderate-to-low risk zones): $400-$700/year for $250,000 in building coverage + $100,000 in contents coverage.

Get quotes: Contact your insurance agent for NFIP coverage, or ask about private flood insurance (often cheaper and with better coverage than NFIP).

4. Water Backup Coverage

Add a sewer/water backup endorsement if you don't already have it.

Cost: $40-$100/year Coverage: Typically $10,000-$25,000 Why it's worth it: The average water backup claim is $7,000-$12,000. This endorsement pays for itself if you ever have a backup.

5. Replacement Cost vs. Actual Cash Value

Your policy should provide "replacement cost" coverage, not "actual cash value."

• Replacement cost: Pays to replace damaged items with new equivalents (no depreciation)

• Actual cash value: Pays the depreciated value of damaged items

Example: Your 5-year-old roof is damaged. Replacement cost: $12,000. Actual cash value: $6,000 (50% depreciation).

Most modern policies provide replacement cost, but verify this with your agent.

Final Thoughts: Prevention Pays

Storm damage is stressful, expensive, and often avoidable. The homeowners who fare best during California winter weather are the ones who:

• Maintain their property proactively

• Understand their insurance coverage before they need it

• Document their home's condition regularly

• Take immediate action when damage occurs

At Pinoy General Insurance, we've been helping Cerritos and Orange County homeowners since 1993. We've seen every type of storm damage claim—approved and denied—and we know what makes the difference.

If you haven't reviewed your homeowners insurance in the past 12-18 months, now is the time. Construction costs are rising, weather patterns are intensifying, and coverage gaps cost California homeowners millions every year.

Need a homeowners insurance review?

📞 Call us: (562) 402-1737
📧 Email: info@pinoygeneralinsurance.com
📍 Visit us: 17304 Norwalk Blvd, Cerritos, CA 90703
🌐 Online: pinoygeneralinsurance.com

We'll review your current policy, identify gaps, and provide a comparison quote—at no cost and with no obligation.

Your home is likely your largest investment. Make sure it's properly protected.

About the Author:

Felix Lopez is a licensed insurance agent and business development manager at Pinoy General Insurance Services in Cerritos, California. Since 1993, Pinoy General Insurance has been providing property and casualty insurance solutions to Southern California families and businesses. Felix specializes in homeowners insurance, commercial property coverage, and risk management for Cerritos and Orange County clients.

Related Articles:

• How to File a Home Insurance Claim in California - Step-by-Step Guide

• Flood Insurance in Cerritos - Do You Need It?

• Understanding Insurance Deductibles - Updated 2026

Disclaimer: This article provides general information and should not be considered legal or financial advice. Insurance coverage varies by policy and carrier. Consult with a licensed insurance professional to discuss your specific situation.