Is Hurricane Insurance the Same as Flood Insurance?

After a serious accident, the last thing any homeowner wants is to find out they don't have the proper insurance coverage to handle the damage. This can be both a shock and a significant financial setback. Understanding the differences between types of insurance and what they cover is crucial.

In short, flood insurance and hurricane insurance are not necessarily the same thing. You need to read the fine print of your policy or, better yet, call your insurance provider to get detailed information on what is and isn't covered. A quick phone call can help you understand whether you live in an area at risk for flooding or hurricanes and what your policy covers.

When getting a homeowner's insurance quote, there are many factors to consider. It's essential to ensure you are purchasing the right type of coverage, especially for potential water damage.

Are Hurricane Insurance and Flood Insurance the Same?

The answer is not straightforward. In many cases, different types of water damage are not covered under traditional homeowner's insurance policies. Typically, homeowners must separately invest in hurricane or flood insurance to supplement their existing policy. Unfortunately, many homeowners find this out only after experiencing damage. Their homeowner's insurance may rightfully deny their claim because the damage is not covered by their specific policy.

Reviewing whether hurricane insurance is the same as flood insurance is critical. If you have already sustained damage and have filed a claim, ensure you follow up with your insurance company to verify they handle all details promptly. If you had the appropriate coverage and your insurance company is wrongfully denying your claim, this could be considered "bad faith," and you may be eligible to pursue legal action.

What Is the Difference Between Hurricane Insurance and Flood Insurance?

In general, hurricane insurance covers liability for damage caused by wind from storms with winds greater than 74 mph (hurricanes). Wind damage from tropical storms (winds under 74 mph) may still be covered under a standard homeowner's insurance policy.

Flood insurance, however, typically covers water entering your home from off-property. Determining the cause of the damage is crucial for verifying coverage. While no single policy provides complete hurricane coverage, a homeowner's or renter's insurance policy may cover some hurricane damage depending on the specifics and location.

Flooding associated with hurricanes is often excluded from homeowner's and renter's insurance, making a flood insurance policy necessary if you live in a high-risk area. Homeowners in hurricane-prone regions like Louisiana, Texas, and Florida can supplement their coverage with windstorm insurance.

When Is a Hurricane Covered?

Insurance policies list "perils" that specify what events are covered or excluded. Hurricanes may not be explicitly named but the associated damage (like wind and flooding) might be. Homeowner's insurance typically covers certain types of water damage but excludes flooding and storm surges.

For example, if a tree falls on your roof during a hurricane, causing water damage inside your home, your homeowner's insurance may cover the repair costs. However, it's crucial to have comprehensive coverage if you live in a hurricane or flood-prone area.

Understanding Hurricane Deductibles

In high hurricane risk areas, you might have a hurricane or named storm deductible, higher than standard deductibles, usually set as a percentage of your dwelling coverage. Twenty states, including Florida, Texas, and New York, have such deductibles. Specific triggers, like the declaration of a hurricane, activate these deductibles.

Exclusions of Wind Damage

In high-risk hurricane areas, your homeowner's insurance might exclude wind damage related to hurricanes. You may need a separate wind and hail or windstorm insurance policy, either as an endorsement of your current policy or from a different provider.

Do I Need a Lawyer for a Claim?

If you believe your insurance company has wrongfully delayed or denied your claim, you might have grounds for a bad faith lawsuit. An experienced insurance dispute lawyer can help you hold the insurance company accountable and potentially recover damages.

Contact our hurricane damage lawyers today for more information and a free, no-obligation case evaluation.