Spoiled food due to North Carolina snow-caused power outages may be covered by insurance
RALEIGH (WTVD) -- If your homeowners insurance policy includes refrigerated property coverage, you may be able to make a claim for food that spoiled when the North Carolina snowstorm knocked out power to thousands.
According to the USDA, food should be safe in the fridge during a power outage for about 4 hours. There are different recommendations for perishable items such as meat, poultry, fish or eggs - which the USDA recommends you discard after only 2 hours above 40 degrees.
But, the widespread storm that hit North Carolina Thursday left many without power longer than the USDA's safety guidelines. In fact, more than 200,00 across the state were without power during the height of the winter storm.
But, before you run out to replace all your food that may have gone bad during the storm, you might want to make a call to your insurance company, because in some cases it could be covered under homeowners or renters insurance.
"The terms can vary from policy to policy," explained Kerry Hall, Director of Public Information with the NC Department of Insurance Administration.
"It's important you understand what's in your policy," said Hall.
"Something we typically see for coverage for spoiled food is that the insurance company will pay up to $500 after you pay a $100 deductible. But, there are some cases where there is no deductible or where more food may be covered. So, it's important you read the terms in your policy," she said.
"With any kind of insurance claim, it always helps if you can document your loss or damage so if you can take photos or show receipts to your insurance company that just makes the claims process go a lot easier."
Experts say the key is understanding your policy, knowing what's covered including spoiled food during a power outage. And, if you don't know, ask or you can add the coverage now before the next round of severe weather hits North Carolina eating into your home's bottom line.
"As we're reaching the Spring and Spring storms and hurricane season comes June 1," Hall explained. "It's important you make sure you understand your coverage and make sure you are covered before the storm comes."
Experts say in many cases, food spoilage claims don't raise premiums, but, it's always important to ask your insurance company whether a claim would impact your individual policy.
For more information on FAQ about disaster and recovery claims in NC click HERE.
