Navigating Insurance Claims After the 2026 Tennessee Winter Storm: What's Covered, What's Not

NASHVILLE — Communities across Middle Tennessee are beginning the arduous task of digging out and assessing the damage following the historic Winter Storm of 2026. While power is slowly being restored and roads cleared, for many homeowners, the more complex challenge of navigating insurance claims is just beginning.

AccuWeather estimates the storm system caused approximately $100 billion in total damage and economic losses. Standard homeowners insurance policies will absorb a significant portion of the financial blow for many, but experts warn that understanding policy specifics—including notable exclusions—is key to a successful recovery.

"Homeowners insurance is fundamentally designed for sudden, accidental events outside the policyholder's control," explains a regional claims adjuster who spoke on background. "A severe, named winter storm like this typically qualifies, but the devil is in the details."

Common Covered Perils

Structural damage from the weight of ice, snow, or sleet is a primary concern. The accumulation can stress roofs and gutters to the point of collapse. Most standard policies include coverage for this type of damage, provided it occurs abruptly during the storm event.

Fallen trees and limbs also represent a major source of claims. If a storm-damaged tree falls onto an insured structure like a house or garage, policies typically cover repairs to the structure and the cost of removing the debris from it. However, removal of the entire fallen tree may only be covered if it's necessary to complete those repairs.

Damage from frozen and burst pipes is often covered, including the repair of the pipe and resulting water damage to walls and personal property. Insurers, however, may investigate whether the homeowner took reasonable steps to maintain heat in the property. "The claim hinges on proving the damage was sudden and unavoidable, not due to negligence or deferred maintenance," the adjuster noted.

Notable Gaps in Coverage

Homeowners should be aware of common exclusions. Damage from melting snow and ice seeping into a home is generally considered flooding, which requires a separate flood insurance policy. Similarly, if a tree falls on a vehicle, the claim falls under comprehensive auto insurance, not homeowners coverage.

Steps for Claimants

Documentation is critical. Insurers advise photographing all damage safely and keeping receipts for any temporary repairs made to prevent further loss. Before filing a claim, homeowners should review their deductible and coverage limits; sometimes, repair costs may be close to the deductible, making a claim less advantageous.

"The aftermath of a disaster is the worst time to realize you're underinsured," said Hillary Stalker, a Certified Financial Planner with CapWealth. "We encourage clients to review their policies proactively, not reactively. Understanding your coverage before the next emergency is the strongest financial preparation you can make."

Reader Reactions

Michael R., Brentwood homeowner: "This article is a sobering checklist. We had a branch puncture our roof. The process has been smooth so far, but we had to argue about the full tree removal. Documenting everything with photos from day one was the best advice we followed."

David Chen, Insurance Agent, Knoxville: "A crucial point is the 'duty to mitigate.' Policyholders must take reasonable steps to prevent additional damage after the initial event. Failing to do so can jeopardize a claim. Also, don't assume—always call your agent to discuss the specifics before assuming something isn't covered."

Sarah P., Franklin resident: "It's infuriating. We pay premiums for decades and then have to jump through hoops and play 'prove it' games after a catastrophe. The flood insurance loophole for melting ice is a trap for ordinary people. The entire system feels designed to minimize payouts, not help people rebuild."

Rev. James Miller, Community Relief Coordinator, Memphis: "Beyond insurance, we're seeing a wave of contractor fraud targeting storm victims. My advice is to work only with licensed, local contractors, get multiple quotes, and never pay the full amount upfront. The financial and emotional toll of this storm will linger long after the ice melts."

Hillary Stalker, CFP®, is an executive vice president and financial adviser at CapWealth. For more information, visit capwealthgroup.com.

This analysis was adapted from reporting originally published by the Nashville Tennessean.