Natural disasters are an unavoidable part of life and can create significant headaches for homeowners. When it comes to home insurance, many wonder whether their policy covers what is known as an “act of God.” While the phrase “act of God” is no longer widely used in the insurance industry, it often causes confusion. Is it still a recognised term? What does it mean? Most importantly, does a home insurance policy protect you if the unexpected happens?
This article explores what is meant by an act of God, how modern home insurance policies approach such events and what homeowners should bear in mind when choosing cover.
What Is an Act of God in Insurance?
Historically, an act of God referred to a natural event that is unforeseeable and unavoidable, where no human is at fault. Classic examples include:
- Earthquakes
- Flooding
- Storm damage
- Lightning strikes
Insurers used the phrase to define scenarios outside human control. However, modern home insurance policies rarely use this term explicitly. Instead, policies are more likely to list specific risks or “perils” that are covered, such as storm damage or subsidence, rather than including a blanket phrase like acts of God. This new approach gives homeowners greater clarity. Rather than relying on vague language, your insurance policy should state in black and white what is included and covered.
Does Modern Home Insurance Cover Acts of God?
Typically, yes, most home insurance policies cover events that would traditionally be considered acts of God. These events include:
Storm damage
Broken roofs, fallen trees or structural damage caused by high winds.
Flooding
Often covered under house insurance, although some properties in high-risk areas may face exclusions or higher premiums.
Lightning strikes
Damage to electrics and fires caused by lightning are usually covered.
Subsidence
Shifting ground that damages foundations can be included, though policies often have strict conditions.
It is crucial to note that the extent of coverage depends on your individual policy. Insurers may exclude certain risks or offer them as optional add-ons.
Common Exclusions
Even though home insurance can cover many natural disasters, there are often exclusions. Homeowners should review their policy wording carefully to avoid surprises. Understanding what is excluded is just as important as knowing what is covered.
Common exclusions include:
Wear and tear
If damage results from poor maintenance or normal expected wear and tear, insurers are unlikely to pay out for this.
Gradual damage
For example, slow water leaks causing mould or rot are usually not covered.
Coastal erosion
Homes on vulnerable coastlines may not be covered for damage caused by the sea eating away at land.
Earthquakes
Some policies exclude earthquake damage.
Flooding and Storm Damage
Flooding and storms are typically the most relevant acts of God homeowners expect. However, with climate change increasing the frequency and severity of extreme weather, insurers have become more cautious.
The government and insurers have created the Flood Re scheme to ensure affordable cover remains available for homes in flood-prone areas. If your property qualifies, you may be able to secure flood insurance at a more manageable price.
For storm damage, insurers typically cover sudden and violent weather, but not gradual deterioration (such as an old roof that finally gives way during a storm).
How Insurers Assess an Act of God Claim
When you make a claim for damage caused by a natural event, insurers will look at:
The direct cause of the damage
Was it sudden and unexpected or linked to neglect?
Policy wording
Does your house insurance specifically list the event as covered?
Evidence
Insurers often ask for photos, repair quotes and reports (e.g. from weather services to confirm storm strength).
If your policy includes the “peril” and you can demonstrate that the event directly caused the damage, you are more likely to succeed with your claim.
Should You Add Extra Cover?
Some natural risks are not automatically included in house insurance. For example, if you live in an area with a history of flooding or subsidence, you may need to purchase add-ons. Similarly, garden structures, sheds and boundary walls may require extra protection. If you want maximum coverage, it is worth speaking to an insurer or broker about optional extras.
Acts of God vs Force Majeure
You may also see the term force majeure in insurance policies and contracts. While similar to natural disaster events, it usually applies in legal or commercial agreements rather than personal insurance. Both terms describe unforeseeable and uncontrollable events, but acts of God are specific to natural disasters, while force majeure refers to these and also includes man-made events such as wars or strikes.
Practical Tips for Homeowners
Read your policy wording carefully
Don’t rely on assumptions.
Maintain your property
Insurers often refuse claims if poor upkeep contributed to damage.
Consider flood maps
If you live in a flood-prone area, check your eligibility for Flood Re.
Review excess and limits
Some natural disaster claims carry higher excess amounts.
Update your cover regularly
Ensure your sum insured reflects rebuilding costs, not just market value.
Conclusion
While the phrase “act of God” may be old-fashioned, the risks it refers to are very real. Home insurance generally covers natural disasters such as storms, floods and lightning, but only if you have chosen the right policy. Exclusions, excesses and conditions all matter, so understanding the details of your policy is essential. Be sure to review your policy, ask questions and consider whether extra cover is worth the cost. By doing so, you can ensure your home is properly protected no matter what nature throws your way.
FAQs
Q. What is an act of God in home insurance?
A. While not used in modern insurance policies, the term refers to a natural event outside human control, such as a storm, flood or lightning strike. Modern policies typically list specific perils instead of using the blanket term “acts of God”.
Q. Does house insurance cover acts of God?
A. Yes, most policies cover many events traditionally defined as acts of God, but exclusions can apply. You must always check the specific wording in your insurance policy.
Q. What types of natural disaster events are usually covered in modern house insurance policies?
A. Events that are typically covered may include storm damage, flooding, lightning strikes and subsidence, though conditions may vary.
Q. What events are excluded from house insurance?
A. Wear and tear, gradual damage, coastal erosion and sometimes earthquakes are excluded. It depends on your region and coverage.
Q. Do I need extra cover for flooding?
A. Depending on what area you reside in, you may need additional or specialist cover. If you live in a high-risk area, you may need cover supported by the Flood Re scheme.
Q. What happens if my claim is rejected?
A. If your claim is rejected on terms you believe to be unfair, you can appeal through your insurer’s complaints process and escalate it to the insurance ombudsman service if unresolved.
Q. Are acts of God the same as force majeure?
A. Not entirely. Acts of God are natural events, such as storms or flooding, while force majeure refers to these but also includes man-made events such as strikes and wars.
Q. How can I reduce my risk of storm or flood damage?
A. It is essential to maintain your property well. Ensure that you regularly clear gutters, reinforce roofs and check flood defences where relevant.
Q. Should I use a broker to review my cover?
A. Possibly. If you are concerned about your cover or unsure about which insurance to apply for, a broker can help you compare home insurance policies and ensure you have the right protection for your circumstances.
Additional Sources:
https://www.comparethemarket.com/home-insurance/content/act-of-god-insurance/
https://www.johnlewisfinance.com/home-insurance/guides/acts-of-god-am-i-covered
https://www.confused.com/home-insurance/guides/act-of-god-insurance
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