"Zoltan" sweeps across Germany: which insurance pays for what

Storm Damage and Insurance Coverage: Navigating Germany's Rules

From storm-damaged houses to wind-blown vehicles, weather-related catastrophes are inevitable in Germany. But don't fret, as insurance companies have got your back. Here's an informal breakdown of how they'll help you recover from the damages:

Storm Damage to Your Abode

Homeowners harboring fears of storm damage can breathe a sigh of relief: household insurance can cover structural damages, like fallen trees or wind-torn roofs, along with consequential damages, such as water leaks or broken windows (the German Insurance Association backs up this claim). If those cellar floods are on the horizon, though, don't forget about natural hazard insurance, as Gothaer Versicherung advises.

Looking Out for Your Belongings

Picture this: your living room looks like an upheaval after 'Zoltan.' But take heart – household contents insurance may take the strain by covering damage to your furniture, personal items, and other belongings. However, if floodwaters have found their way into your den, add extra protection against natural hazards to ensure coverage, as Gothaer Versicherung reveals.

Auto Troubles? No Worries

When storms hit and your car feels the brunt, get ready to rumble with your partial or fully comprehensive insurance. While the policy won't replace your jalopy, it'll compensate for the car's current value. In case the wind sweeps in a brick or tree branch, your insurance will likely kick in around 74.5 kilometers per hour, as Gothaer Versicherung points out (same goes if you run into a fallen tree – better safe than sorry!). If you missed out on liability coverage, whoops, you'll be handling that damage independently.

Air and Rail Travel: Assistance and Refunds

Got a long-haul flight scheduled that's threatened by 'Zoltan's' winds? Fear not, as you're entitled to some assistance, depending on your flight duration:

Short-haul (under 1,500 km): Passengers can claim assistance if delays exceed two hours, with telephone calls, drinks, meals, and a possible hotel stay on the menu.
Long-haul (over 1,500 km): For those with flights spanning between 1,500 to 3,500 km, assistance becomes available with a three-hour delay, while flights surpassing 3,500 kilometers can expect aid after the four-hour mark. No matter the delay, make sure you're at the airport at your original departure time to secure alternative options.

If taking the train instead, nervous flyers – or rail passengers, generally – can look forward to a partial fare refund for delays exceeding 60 minutes. The longer the delay, the more you receive in reimbursement: 25% of the fare for delays of over 60 minutes, and half of the fare for those spanning over 2 hours.

The Storm Whirls On

As 'Zoltan' continues its unyielding trek across Germany, the German Weather Service anticipates rising storm surges in northern regions (no need to panic, though!).