From the beginning of June through the end of November, hurricanes can cause extreme devastation to properties in their wake.
If you live in the Atlantic coastline states — from as far North as Massachusetts, south to Florida, and even as far west as Texas — you’re no stranger to hurricanes.
Hurricane insurance may be exactly what you need to protect your home from damage. But is it right for you?
This hurricane insurance guide will give you everything you need to know about hurricane coverage for 2022, including what it is, how it works, and if it's right for you.
WHAT IS HURRICANE INSURANCE?
Two common losses occur during hurricanes: wind damage and flooding.
Windstorm Coverage:
Hurricane and wind insurance may be included in your home insurance policy or may require a separate “wind only” policy depending on the location of your home. Most home insurance policies in Florida have coverage included to protect your home and belongings from hurricane and other wind damage, most likely with a separate deductible.
If you live in a wind zone region where wind losses are excluded from your home insurance policy, ask your agent about a “wind only” policy. Most mortgage companies will require wind coverage on your home, so do not risk going without this important coverage.
Flood Insurance
Unlike years past, many home insurance companies offer the option to “endorse” or add coverage for flood for an additional expense. For home insurance carriers that do not offer the option to add flood coverage, ask your agent about a flood policy from the National Flood Insurance Program or other flood provider. Since the introduction of private flood companies into the marketplace over the last few years, flood insurance premiums can now vary per company-it pays to shop around!
Additional Living Expenses (ALE)
If your home is severely damaged by a hurricane, chances are it will be uninhabitable while repairs are being made. Many policies include additional living expenses coverage to account for the cost of a hotel or rental, eating out, and other expenses outside what you’d typically experience.
WHAT DOES HURRICANE INSURANCE COVER?
Always read your policy thoroughly and/or review with your insurance agent to understand what’s included and involved with your particular policy.
What are hurricane deductibles?
You already know that you need to pay your deductible when you make a home insurance claim, but did you know there’s normally a separate hurricane deductible?
When hurricane damage occurs, the claim is subject to your hurricane deductible, rather than your “all other peril” policy deductible.
While a policy deductible is a flat rate, the hurricane deductible is a percentage of your insured home value (often between 1 - 5%). That means instead of a flat $1,000 or $2500 deductible, for example, you’ll be responsible for your pre-selected percentage deductible. Ex. If you have a 2% hurricane deductible and your home is insured for $400,000, you are responsible for $8,000 of the loss.
What states have a hurricane deductible?
If you live in one of the following, you may have a separate hurricane deductible:
- Alabama
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Florida
- Georgia
- Hawaii
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Mississippi
- New Jersey
- New York
- North Carolina
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- South Carolina
- Texas
- Virginia
HOW MUCH IS HURRICANE INSURANCE?
When it comes to having adequate coverage for hurricane damage, the total amount you will pay varies drastically from state to state. Additionally, your exact location and how close you are to the ocean will also affect your rates.
As with any policy, it's best to shop around and talk to your insurance agent about potential discounts. However, in the event of a storm, you’ll certainly be glad you’re covered!
DOES RENTERS INSURANCE COVER HURRICANES?
While your landlord’s home insurance should cover any building damage, it will not cover any of your personal possessions. That’s why renters insurance is a great option if you currently rent and don’t own.
Simply contact a trusted renters insurance provider for a quote.
TIPS FOR HURRICANE DAMAGE COVERAGE
After a catastrophe happens, it’s too late to review or add to your insurance policy, so follow these tips to get coverage now, so you’ll be protected later.
● Compare companies.
As with any new insurance policy (or even when it’s time to renew), it pays to get multiple quotes. That way, you can shop for the best coverage and the best premiums.
● Determine the right coverage amount.
As we mentioned, there are different options for hurricane-related coverage, including Actual Cash Value and replacement value. Ensure whatever you choose will cover the damage for your property.
● Don’t wait.
When a hurricane’s on the horizon, it’s too late to add flood and windstorm coverage to your policy.
While hurricane insurance isn’t a necessity for every homeowner, it will certainly be beneficial for those homes along the coastline. Review your home insurance policy today and determine whether you need to fill any gaps with additional hurricane-related policies.
If you need help finding the best homeowners insurance coverage for the best price, start by speaking to a SimplyIOA agent at 833.872.4467 or get a homeowners insurance quote online now.
