- Windstorms & dust
- Hail
- Wildfire & smoke
- Extreme heat
- Freeze
Housing mix: Post-war homes in Richland, large newer subdivisions in Kennewick and Pasco, and commercial buildings.
The Columbia Basin climate
The Tri-Cities of Kennewick, Pasco and Richland sit where the Columbia, Snake and Yakima rivers meet, in Benton and Franklin counties. The climate is dry, with hot summers and cold winters. Strong winds are common, and windstorms can drive dust, tumbleweeds and debris into homes. Summer thunderstorms can bring hail and sudden gusts.
Range and grass fires burn across the surrounding hills and shrub-steppe most summers, sometimes reaching the edge of town. During the June 2021 heat wave, temperatures across eastern Washington reached record highs, stressing roofs, HVAC systems and older plumbing.
Tri-Cities housing
Richland has many post-war homes built for Hanford workers, including the well-known “alphabet houses.” Kennewick, Pasco and West Richland have grown rapidly with large new subdivisions. The area also has commercial, industrial and agricultural buildings.
Common Tri-Cities claims
- Wind damage to roofs, siding, fences and outbuildings.
- Hail damage to roofs, gutters and HVAC units.
- Smoke and ash cleaning after range fires.
- Commercial roof losses on large low-slope buildings.
Services available in Tri-Cities
Every Washington Insurance Appraiser service is available to property owners in Tri-Cities and across Benton & Franklin Counties, including:
- Appraisal Clause Representation
- Homeowner Claim Appraisal
- Condo, HOA & Commercial Appraisal
- Roof & Hail Damage Appraisal
- Windstorm & Tornado Appraisal
- Fallen Tree Damage Appraisal
- Water & Rain Intrusion Appraisal
- Fire & Smoke Damage Appraisal
Questions from Tri-Cities property owners
Do you serve all three cities?
Yes, plus West Richland, Benton City, Burbank, Finley and the surrounding parts of Benton and Franklin counties.
Are older Richland homes harder to value?
They can be. The post-war houses often have been remodeled many times, so matching materials and documenting the original construction matter.
