Does homeowners insurance cover food loss after a power outage?

Power outages can cause a major disruption in your home. And when they last for hours or even days, the food in your refrigerator or freezer may not make it.

If you’re dealing with spoiled groceries after an outage, you may be wondering whether your homeowners insurance can help. The answer is: it might, depending on your policy and what caused the loss.

Here’s what to know about food spoilage coverage, when compensation may be available, and how to decide if filing a claim makes sense.

Is food loss after a power outage covered by homeowners insurance?

In some cases, yes. A standard homeowners policy may provide limited coverage for food spoilage after a covered power outage.

Coverage is subject to policy terms, limits, and exclusions, but some policies may include a set limit for spoiled food, such as $500 or $1,000.

Coverage for food spoilage caused by mechanical or electrical breakdown may depend on your policy and any optional endorsements.

What causes may be covered?

Depending on your policy and the cause of the loss, certain outage-related food spoilage losses may be covered, including:

• Some losses caused by events on your property
• Losses due to an off-premises outage

Review your policy details or connect with your American Family Insurance agent to confirm what’s included.

Can the power company reimburse you for spoiled food?

Sometimes. If a utility or power company determines it was responsible for the outage, it may reimburse you for the cost of spoiled food.

If you believe the outage was caused by the utility provider, contact the company directly to ask whether reimbursement is available and what documentation they require.

What if my refrigerator stops working for another reason?

If your refrigerator fails for reasons unrelated to a power outage, your appliance warranty or home warranty may help repair or replace the appliance, depending on those contracts.

You may have limited food spoilage coverage for certain covered losses under your homeowners policy. If you’d like additional protection, optional equipment breakdown coverage may be available in some states to help cover certain losses caused by a covered mechanical or electrical failure. Subject to policy terms, conditions, and exclusions.*

How to file a food spoilage claim

If you plan to file a claim for food loss, gathering a few details ahead of time can help speed up the process.

Be prepared to provide:

• A list of the food that was lost
• Photos of the spoiled food, if possible
• An estimate of the total cost
• Receipts for higher-cost items, such as seafood or specialty meats

Keeping this information organized can make it easier when you speak with your insurer or utility company.

How much will I be compensated for food loss?

Your reimbursement is subject to your policy limit and deductible.

For example, if your policy includes a $1,000 food spoilage limit, that’s the maximum amount available for a covered loss, even if the total value of the spoiled food is higher.

Keep in mind, you may also have a deductible that applies to the loss. It’s helpful to compare:

• The total value of the spoiled food
• Your policy’s food spoilage limit
• Your deductible amount

Reviewing those details can help you decide whether filing a claim is worthwhile.

Learn about food loss coverage after a power outage

Coverage for outage-related food spoilage depends on the cause of the loss, your policy terms, and any applicable limits or deductibles.

If you’re not sure what your homeowners insurance includes, reach out to your American Family agent to set up a personal insurance review and discuss the details of your policy.

This information represents only a brief description of coverages, is not part of your policy, and is not a promise or guarantee of coverage. If there is any conflict between this information and your policy, the provisions of the policy will prevail. Insurance policy terms and conditions may apply. Exclusions may apply to policies, endorsements, or riders. Coverage may vary by state and may be subject to change. Some products are not available in every state. Please read your policy and contact your agent for assistance.

*Coverage provided by adding the Equipment Breakdown optional endorsement. Does not provide coverage for breakdown caused by normal wear and tear. Limits, exclusions and deductible apply. Availability varies based on the way you purchase insurance and by state. Refer to your policy or talk to your agent for details.