SavvyMoney Daily

Know Your Coverage

Chris O'Shea
Jun. 14, 2019
2 min read

What homeowners insurance covers when it comes to hurricanes


The 2019 Atlantic hurricane season is upon us. While it’s expected to be a relatively normal season— we can expect 14 named storms; six hurricanes and two major hurricanes — all it takes is one of these storms to cause damage to your house. With that in mind, here are a few things you need to know about homeowners insurance when it comes to hurricanes.

  • Most storms are covered. As USA Today notes, homeowners insurance typically covers about 10 percent of the main structure’s insured amount when it’s damaged by a hurricane. It also covers damage to detached structures, like sheds. Homeowners insurance also covers interior damage — anywhere from 50 to 70 percent of what your home is insured for.

  • Floods and earthquakes are seperate. Homeowners insurance does not cover damage from flooding or earthquakes. If you’re in a flood zone or a location that often gets hit by earthquakes, you need to buy additional flood and earthquake specific policies.

  • Be ready. Your homeowners insurance coverage is only as good as your documentation. Make sure your policy reflects your home and the possessions inside of it. How many bedrooms do you have? What about that new roof you installed two years ago? Keep the records up to date. As for your things, one easy way to track possessions is to record them on your phone. When possible, describe any details you have about the items, like the model/serial number. The more you cover, the more your homeowners insurance will, too.

    • Related posts:

    1. Who Is Your Realtor Working For?
    2. Ready Up
    3. Real Estate: Should You Rent or Buy?
    4. Five Mistakes to Avoid as a First-Time Home Buyer

    Chris O'Shea

    View all posts

    You may also like

    Powered by: SavvyMoney