Does homeowners insurance cover hurricane damage?
By Allstate
Last updated: February 2023
If you live in a region that is prone to hurricanes, you likely have certain emergency plans in place. But do you know what kinds of insurance you may need to provide coverage for the kinds of damage a hurricane can cause? The answer may depend on where you live, what types of damage your home sustains, what limitations your policy may have in place and how much coverage you purchase. Here are some things to consider when it comes to hurricanes and homeowners insurance.
Hurricane damage caused by wind
Wind is typically among the perils covered by a standard homeowners insurance policy. However, some policies partially or completely exclude wind-related damage. It's important to read your home insurance policy or contact your insurance provider to learn if and how your home's structure, as well as your belongings, may be covered against a hurricane's winds.
If your policy does offer coverage for wind damage, you may find that it includes a separate hurricane deductible that is higher than your standard deductible, according to the Insurance Information Institute (III). And, if coverage is provided by your policy, it's important to remember that coverage limits will apply.
Be sure to review the amount of coverage you have in place and make any necessary adjustments to help ensure your limits are in line with the potential cost of repairing or rebuilding your home, the III suggests.
Hurricane damage caused by flood
Private homeowners insurance policies typically do not cover flood damage. That exclusion also pertains to flooding brought on by or as a result of a hurricane. You may be able to purchase a separate flood insurance policy through the National Flood Insurance Program to help cover such damage.
However, if a hurricane's wind damages your roof, and rain gets in as a result, you may find that homeowners insurance offers some protection if your policy includes coverage for wind.
Read your insurance policy carefully to learn what it does and does not cover.