Does Insurance Pay for Emergency Board-Up Costs?
Last updated October 26, 2026
The short answer
What Board-Up Work Usually Involves
Emergency board-up means covering broken windows, doors, or roof openings with plywood or heavy plastic to protect your home from weather, animals, or intruders after a damaging event. The work is temporary, meant to secure the structure until permanent repairs can happen. It is a common first step after a storm, fire, or a fallen tree.
The pros who do this work assess which openings need covering, measure them, cut plywood to fit, and fasten it securely. They also check for hazards like loose debris or unstable framing. You may need this service even before you talk to your insurance company, because further damage can make your claim more complicated.
- Broken windows from high winds
- Damaged doors after a break-in
- Roof holes from a fallen branch
- Cracked sliding glass doors
How to Check Your Policy
Read your homeowners or renters policy to see what perils are covered, such as wind, hail, fire, or vandalism. Look for a section on 'loss of use' or 'emergency repairs,' which sometimes includes board-up costs. If the damage comes from a covered event, you may be reimbursed for reasonable emergency measures.
Your insurer may require you to take steps to prevent further damage, which is exactly what board-up does. Document everything: take photos of the damage before and after the board-up, save receipts for materials and labor, and note the date and time. This evidence helps when you file your claim.
What to Do Right After Damage
Act quickly to protect your home. If a window is broken or a door is off its hinges, cover it as soon as you safely can. You can do a temporary fix yourself with plywood and screws, but for large or high openings, the pros are safer and faster. Keep all receipts for any materials you buy.
Take photos of the damage from multiple angles before you cover anything. Write down the time and date the damage happened, and note the weather conditions if relevant. This information is important for your claim and for the pros who come to do the work.
When Your Claim Might Be Denied
If the damage comes from a peril your policy excludes, such as flooding from rising water or general wear and tear, your claim may be denied. Flood insurance is usually separate, so a burst pipe may be covered but a river flood may not. Your policy documents spell out the exclusions.
If you delayed securing your home and more damage occurred, your insurer might argue you did not mitigate your losses. That is why prompt board-up matters. If you are unsure about a denial, you can ask your insurer to explain the specific policy language that applies.
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Call Now (510) 318-3798Frequently asked questions
Can I board up my own windows and get reimbursed?
Yes, you can often do your own temporary board-up and be reimbursed for materials, as long as you keep receipts and take photos. Your insurer may pay for reasonable costs, but check your policy first. The key is to prevent further damage and document everything.
Does board-up cost count toward my deductible?
Typically, yes. Board-up costs are part of the same claim as the underlying damage, so they count toward your deductible. The amount you pay depends on your deductible and the total repair cost. Costs vary based on the size of the openings and local labor rates.
What if I cannot afford the board-up upfront?
Some pros may ask for payment at the time of service, but you can ask about payment options. Your insurance company might reimburse you later, but you usually pay first. You can also use a credit card or ask the pro about a payment plan. Keep all receipts for your claim.
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