Local risks and coverage issues
New Madrid seismic exposure, spring tornadoes and river flooding; a two-state metro with different auto rules.
The metro straddles Missouri and Illinois, each with its own regulator and auto rules (both require uninsured motorist coverage). Earthquake coverage is worth considering given the New Madrid Seismic Zone, and the Mississippi and Missouri rivers bring flood risk.
Tornado and straight-line wind damage is generally covered by homeowners policies as windstorm, but many St. Louis policies now apply a separate wind/hail deductible. Know the dollar amount before spring storm season.
Hail is one of the most frequent property claims in St. Louis. Read how your policy settles roof claims: some pay replacement cost, others pay actual cash value on roofs past a certain age, and cosmetic-damage exclusions are increasingly common. Impact-resistant (Class 4) shingles may earn a discount.
Flooding is the most common U.S. natural disaster, and it is excluded from regular home policies. St. Louis residents outside high-risk zones can often buy NFIP or private flood coverage at lower cost; remember the typical 30-day waiting period.
St. Louis has meaningful seismic exposure, but earthquake coverage must be added separately. Older unreinforced masonry and homes with raised foundations are most vulnerable; ask about retrofit credits.
State rules that apply in St. Louis
Insurance here is regulated by the Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance (find it via NAIC). Minimum auto liability is 25/50/25. Uninsured motorist coverage is also required. If private home coverage is unavailable, the residual market is: Missouri FAIR Plan.
See the full Missouri insurance guide.
Local resources for St. Louis
Before and after a loss, these official resources help: St. Louis County's Office of Emergency Management; the Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance; and the Illinois Department of Insurance for Metro East residents. Sign up for local alerts, know your evacuation zone, and keep your policy documents somewhere you can reach from a phone.
A St. Louis coverage checklist
- Confirm whether your wind/hail deductible is a flat amount or a percentage.
- Read the roof settlement clause and ask whether Class 4 impact-resistant shingles earn a credit.
- Check your address on FEMA's Flood Map Service Center and price an NFIP or private flood policy before storm season (NFIP usually has a 30-day wait).
- Get an earthquake quote and compare the percentage deductible in dollars.
- Make sure your auto limits are well above the 25/50/25 minimum if you own a home or have savings.
- If you rent, carry renters insurance with liability and loss of use.
- Business owners: confirm general liability, property, commercial auto and workers' comp requirements for Missouri.
Frequently asked questions
Are tornadoes covered by homeowners insurance in St. Louis?
Yes, as windstorm damage, subject to your deductible, which may be a separate wind/hail deductible.
Will my St. Louis policy pay to replace a hail-damaged roof?
It depends on the roof settlement terms. Some policies pay replacement cost; others pay actual cash value on older roofs or exclude cosmetic damage.
What is the biggest insurance risk in St. Louis?
New Madrid seismic exposure, spring tornadoes and river flooding; a two-state metro with different auto rules.
What are the auto insurance minimums in St. Louis?
25/50/25. Uninsured motorist coverage is also required.
Where can St. Louis residents file an insurance complaint?
With the Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance.
Sources
General information only; requirements change, so confirm with the state regulator. Coverage depends on policy terms and underwriting.