Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Hurricane Damage?
Last updated October 25, 2026
The short answer
Understanding Wind Versus Flood Damage
Most homeowners policies treat wind and flood as separate perils. Your policy likely covers damage from hurricane-force winds, such as torn-off roofing or broken windows. Water that enters through these wind-created openings may also be covered. However, water that rises from the ground, including storm surge or accumulated rainfall, is typically considered flood damage and requires separate flood insurance.
This distinction is critical for filing a claim. If a hurricane causes a tree to crash through your roof, the resulting water damage is usually covered. If rising water from a nearby river enters your home, that is generally a flood claim. Document all damage with photos and notes before any cleanup begins to help with the claims process.
How Flood Insurance Fills the Gap
The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and some private insurers offer flood policies. These policies specifically cover damage from surface water, mudflow, and storm surge. They are essential in hurricane-prone areas, as standard insurance provides no protection against these forces. Waiting periods often apply, so you cannot buy coverage when a storm is already forecast.
Flood insurance typically has separate deductibles and coverage limits for your home's structure and your personal belongings. It usually does not cover living expenses if you must leave your home. Review a flood policy's details carefully to know what is included. Remember, policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
Steps to Take After Hurricane Damage
Your first priority is safety. Do not re-enter a damaged home until authorities declare it safe. Once safe, document all damage with photographs and videos from multiple angles. Make a list of damaged or destroyed items, including their approximate age and value. This documentation is vital for both your insurance claim and any potential disaster assistance applications.
Contact your insurance company to start the claims process. Prevent further damage by making temporary repairs, like placing a tarp over a hole in the roof. Save all receipts for these repairs, as your policy may reimburse you. Be cautious of contractors who pressure you for immediate payment or ask you to sign over your insurance benefits.
Common Exclusions and Limitations
Even with both standard and flood policies, some hurricane-related costs may not be covered. Many policies have a separate, higher deductible for hurricane or windstorm damage. Coverage for spoiled food due to power outages or damage to external structures like fences may be limited or excluded. Mold remediation is often capped unless the mold resulted from a covered water loss.
Earth movement, like landslides triggered by the storm, is usually excluded. Sewer or drain backup might require an additional endorsement. Always read the exclusions section of your policy. Understanding these limits before a storm helps you set realistic expectations and plan financially for potential out-of-pocket costs.
- Hurricane or windstorm deductibles, often a percentage of your home's value.
- Limited coverage for detached structures like sheds or gazebos.
- Caps on mold damage remediation costs.
- Exclusion for earth movement, including landslides.
- Possible limits on debris removal from your property.
- Sewer backup coverage usually requires a separate policy add-on.
Working with Restoration Professionals
After filing your claim, you will need qualified help to restore your home. Local water damage pros can assess the damage, extract water, and dry the structure to prevent mold. They document their findings, which can support your insurance claim. For major structural repairs, you may also need a general contractor.
Get multiple written estimates for the repair work. Your insurance adjuster will provide an estimate of the covered costs, but you choose your own contractors. Ensure any professional you hire is properly qualified for the work. Keep all communication and invoices organized. This helps ensure repairs are done correctly and that you are fairly reimbursed.
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Call Now (702) 878-3744Frequently asked questions
What if my home is damaged by both wind and flood?
You will likely file two separate claims: one under your homeowners policy for wind damage and one under your flood policy. An adjuster for each policy will assess the damage. Document everything thoroughly to help distinguish the cause of each type of damage.
Does insurance cover a hotel if my home is uninhabitable?
Most standard homeowners policies include loss of use coverage, which pays for additional living expenses like a hotel and meals if your home is made uninhabitable by a covered peril. Flood insurance typically does not cover these costs. Check your policy for specific limits and rules.
How can I prepare my insurance before hurricane season?
Review your policies annually to understand your deductibles and coverage limits. Create a home inventory with photos or video of your belongings. Keep digital copies of your insurance documents in a secure, accessible place. Consider increasing your coverage if needed, as rebuilding costs can rise.
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