Every year, hurricane season brings the potential for high winds, heavy rain, storm surge, and flooding. While you can’t control the weather, you can make sure your insurance coverage is ready before a storm threatens your area.
Many homeowners are surprised to learn that not all hurricane-related damage is covered by a standard homeowners insurance policy. Understanding your coverage now can help you avoid costly surprises later.
Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Hurricane Damage?
The answer is: it depends on what caused the damage.
A standard homeowners insurance policy generally covers damage caused by wind, such as:
- Roof damage from high winds
- Broken windows caused by flying debris
- Fallen trees damaging your home
- Damage to attached structures like garages
However, flooding is a different story.
If rising water enters your home from storm surge, overflowing rivers, or heavy rainfall that causes flooding, those damages are typically not covered under a standard homeowners policy.
That’s why many homeowners—especially those living in hurricane-prone areas—choose to purchase separate flood insurance.
Why Flood Insurance Matters
Flooding can happen almost anywhere—not just along the coast.
Even homes outside designated flood zones can experience flood damage from:
- Heavy rainfall
- Tropical storms
- Hurricane storm surge
- Overflowing lakes, rivers, or drainage systems
Without flood insurance, homeowners may be responsible for paying thousands of dollars out of pocket for repairs and replacing damaged belongings.
It’s also important to remember that many flood insurance policies include a waiting period before coverage begins, so waiting until a storm is approaching may be too late.
Don’t Forget About Hurricane Deductibles
Some homeowners policies include a separate hurricane or windstorm deductible.
Unlike your regular deductible, which is often a fixed dollar amount, a hurricane deductible may be calculated as a percentage of your home’s insured value.
For example, if your home is insured for $400,000 and your policy has a 2% hurricane deductible, you could be responsible for the first $8,000 of covered hurricane damage before insurance begins paying.
Knowing how your deductible works can help you avoid unexpected costs after a storm.
Hurricane Preparation Checklist
Preparing your home before a storm arrives can reduce damage and make recovery easier.
Before Hurricane Season
✔ Review your insurance policies and understand your coverage.
✔ Confirm your home is insured for its current replacement value.
✔ Ask your insurance agent whether flood insurance is recommended for your property.
✔ Photograph your home’s interior and exterior.
✔ Create a home inventory of valuable belongings.
✔ Store insurance documents in a waterproof container and keep digital copies online.
When a Storm Is Forecast
✔ Bring patio furniture, grills, and outdoor decorations inside.
✔ Trim loose tree branches.
✔ Secure windows or install storm shutters if available.
✔ Charge phones, laptops, and backup batteries.
✔ Fill vehicles with fuel.
✔ Stock enough food, water, medications, and pet supplies for several days.
✔ Prepare an emergency kit with flashlights, batteries, first aid supplies, and important documents.
After the Storm
✔ Stay away from floodwaters and downed power lines.
✔ Document any damage with photos before beginning cleanup.
✔ Take reasonable steps to prevent additional damage if it is safe to do so.
✔ Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to begin the claims process.
Review Your Coverage
No one can prevent hurricanes, but you can prepare for them.
Taking time now to review your homeowners and flood insurance coverage can provide valuable peace of mind before severe weather arrives. If you have questions about your policy, deductible, or whether flood insurance makes sense for your property, the experienced team at Dimmitt Insurance is here to help.
Protect Your Home for the Rest of Hurricane Season
Hurricane season is here, and there’s still time to make sure you have the protection you need. Contact Dimmitt Insurance today to review your homeowners and flood insurance coverage. We’ll help you understand your options so you can head into the rest of the season with greater confidence.
