Hurricanes and severe storms can cause significant damage to homes, leaving many homeowners wondering: Does my standard homeowners insurance cover hurricane damage, or do I need additional policies? We sat down with Chris Walton, Agency Manager at Cornerstone Insurance Agency LLC, to get answers.
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1. Does standard homeowners insurance cover hurricane damage?
Walton: Standard homeowners insurance policies do cover wind-related damage from hurricanes, such as damage to the roof, siding, or windows. However, flooding caused by storm surges or rising waters is not covered and requires a separate flood insurance policy.
In some coastal or high-risk areas, wind coverage may be excluded from standard policies. In those cases, homeowners can purchase additional wind insurance through agencies like Cornerstone Insurance, often facilitated through programs like Texas Wind Insurance Agency (TWIA).
2. What is a hurricane deductible, and how does it differ from a regular deductible?
Walton: A hurricane deductible applies specifically to hurricane-related damage or claims and is calculated as a percentage of your home’s insured value.
For example, if you have a $400,000 insured home with a 2% hurricane deductible, your out-of-pocket expense would be $8,000, and insurance would cover the remaining damages. Regular deductibles usually have a flat-dollar amount and apply to general damage.
3. Does homeowners insurance cover flash flooding?
Walton: No, standard homeowners’ insurance does not cover flash flooding or damage from rising waters or storm surges. A separate flood insurance policy is required.
4. What types of wind or hail damage are usually covered under a standard policy?
Walton: Most standard policies cover:
- Roof and siding damage
- Broken windows and skylights
- Wind-driven rain damage that follows structural damage
- Personal property damaged by wind or hail
However, some policies exclude cosmetic damage, such as dents or marring to gutters.
5. What are common misconceptions homeowners have about weather-related coverage?
Walton: Many homeowners assume flood coverage is included, but it isn’t. Another misconception is that older roofs automatically qualify for hurricane claims. For roofs that are 25–30 years old, claims may not be approved. Overall, flood insurance is always separate from standard homeowners’ coverage.
6. What practical steps can homeowners take to protect their homes before a storm?
Walton: Preventive action can reduce damage and make insurance claims easier. Homeowners should consider:
- Installing storm shutters or pre-cut plywood for windows and doors.
- Cleaning gutters to ensure water flows away from the foundation.
- Using hurricane straps when installing a new roof.
- Installing water sensors on main water lines to automatically shut off water in case of leaks or breaks.
These steps help protect your home and limit potential damages.
7. When should a homeowner file a claim, and when might it make sense not to?
Walton: A general rule is to file a claim only if the damage exceeds your deductible. For instance, if your hurricane deductible is $8,000, damages should ideally be double or more that amount before filing.
You should always file a claim if:
- The home is unlivable or unsafe
- Structural damage makes it dangerous to remain in the home
Otherwise, it may make sense to handle smaller repairs directly to avoid impacting your claims history.
8. What should homeowners do immediately after storm damage?
Walton: If your home is damaged, here’s what to focus on first and foremost.
- Safety first – ensure family, pets, and yourself are safe.
- Document everything – take photos and videos of damage for your adjuster.
- Prevent further damage – cover broken roofs with tarps and save receipts for temporary repairs.
- File a claim promptly – contact your insurance company or agency to start the process.
Understanding the differences between wind, hurricanes, and flood coverage can save homeowners from costly surprises. Preventive measures, proper documentation, and knowing when to file a claim all play a critical role in protecting your home and your finances.
For more guidance on hurricane coverage or flood insurance, contact Cornerstone Insurance Agency LLC today.
This article is for informational purposes only. You should not act based on this information without first consulting with your insurance agent; if you would like a quote from a Cornerstone Insurance Agency licensed agent, contact us. We disclaim all liability for actions taken or not taken by you based on the contents of this article which is provided “as is.” Cornerstone makes no representation that this content is error-free.