THE MOST IMPORTANT DISTINCTION
Wind and flood are not the same insurance exposure.
A homeowners policy may cover certain hurricane or wind damage subject to its terms, exclusions and hurricane deductible. Damage caused by flooding, including rising water or storm surge, is generally handled through separate flood coverage or an eligible flood endorsement.
HURRICANE AND WIND DAMAGE
The cause of the damage matters.
- Wind damages the roof or exterior of the home
- Wind driven debris damages a covered part of the structure
- Rain enters through storm created damage, depending on policy terms
- A hurricane deductible may apply instead of the standard deductible
- Some properties may have separate windstorm arrangements, so the declarations and endorsements matter
FLOOD DAMAGE
Rising water usually requires its own coverage.
- Storm surge moving inland from the coast
- Rapid accumulation or runoff of surface water that meets the policy definition of flood
- Flood coverage may come from the National Flood Insurance Program or the private market
- Waiting periods can apply to newly purchased flood coverage
- Flood risk is not limited to properties shown in the highest risk flood zones
WHEN ONE STORM CAUSES BOTH
One hurricane can create two different claims questions.
If a property has both wind damage and flood damage, separate policies may respond to different portions of the loss. The carriers and adjusters determine cause and coverage under the actual policy language. Keeping both policy documents and claim information organized can make that process easier.
BEFORE HURRICANE SEASON
Review the gaps before a storm is on the map.
- Confirm whether wind or hurricane coverage is included and review the applicable deductible
- Confirm whether you have flood coverage and when it becomes effective
- Review dwelling, contents and additional living expense limits where applicable
- Keep current policy and carrier contact information available