INDUSTRY DATA
Unfortunately, tornado activity also increased, with Kansas recording its highest tornado count in five years and the US experiencing its highest number of tornadic events in the past 25 years. After a period of decline, hail events in Kansas rebounded, with 2022 ending the downward trend and 2024 reaching a fiveyear peak. While hail activity decreased nationally compared to 2023, straight-line wind events continued at high levels, a trend that has persisted since 2021. These developments underscore a notable escalation in the frequency and intensity of severe convective storms in recent years.
2024 KANSAS VIEW: CONVECTION- RELATED STORM EVENTS
With all the continued increase in convective storm activity, including hail, below are a few of the related coverage issues to revisit with customers:
Roof Coverage: ACV vs. RCV Many carriers continue to move to Actual Cash Value( ACV) for older roofs. Explain depreciation schedules and the out-of-pocket implications and suggest clients consider endorsements for Replacement Cost Value( RCV), where available.
Wind / Hail Deductibles Make sure customers understand that these are often separate and percentage based. Clarify that it is a percentage of the total value of the building as this can be confusing to customers. Review deductibles carefully with clients and help them estimate the financial impact before a loss occurs.
Matching of Siding / Roof Materials Mismatched repairs can reduce property value and lead to disputes. Some policies exclude matching altogether. Identify this potential issue, discuss it with your customer and consider recommending matching endorsements where available. Educate customers on cosmetic hail exclusions.
Ordinance or Law Coverage Are you offering ordinance or law coverage? Discuss this with customers that have older homes or commercial buildings in cities like Wichita, Topeka, or Kansas City suburbs.
MAY / JUNE 2025
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