The short answer
What Hurricane Damage Is Covered
Standard homeowners insurance typically covers wind damage, including wind-driven rain that enters through a broken window or damaged roof. That means if hurricane winds tear off shingles or topple a tree onto your house, the repair costs often fall under your dwelling coverage. Personal belongings damaged by wind or rain may also be covered under your contents section.
However, flooding from storm surge or rising water is almost always excluded from a standard policy. Flood insurance is a separate policy, usually through the National Flood Insurance Program. If you live in a coastal area or a flood-prone zone, that separate coverage matters. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.
What About Storm Surge and Flooding
Storm surge is the wall of water pushed onshore by hurricane winds, and it is considered flooding by most insurers. That means it is not covered under a standard homeowners policy. Even if your roof is intact, water that seeps into your crawl space from the ground is flood damage, not wind damage.
If you have flood insurance, it can help with cleanup and repairs. Without it, you may be responsible for the full cost. Even inland homes can face localized flooding from heavy rain, so check your policy to see what it says about water damage from storms.
- Wind damage to roof, siding, windows, and attached structures
- Wind-driven rain entering through a damaged roof or window
- Fallen trees or branches hitting your home
- Damage to personal belongings from wind or rain
- Flooding from storm surge, rising water, or ground seepage (excluded without flood insurance)
- Temporary repairs to prevent further damage, if allowed by your policy
How to Document Damage for Claims
After a hurricane, safety comes first. Do not enter a damaged home until it is safe. Once you can, take photos and videos of every damaged area, including the roof, walls, floors, and personal items. Keep receipts for any temporary repairs you make, like tarping a roof or boarding windows.
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the claim. Be honest about the cause of damage. If wind and flood both occurred, your insurer may split the claim between your homeowners and flood policies. Keep a detailed inventory of what was lost or damaged, including approximate purchase dates and values.
What to Do Before the Next Storm
Review your policy before hurricane season. Know your deductibles, especially if you have a separate windstorm or hurricane deductible, which can be higher than your standard deductible. Ask your insurer about coverage limits for your home and contents, and consider whether flood insurance makes sense for your area.
Take steps to reduce potential damage. Trim trees near your home, secure loose outdoor items, and reinforce windows with storm shutters or plywood. Keep important documents, like your policy and home inventory, in a waterproof container. If a storm is forecast, take photos of your home's condition beforehand to help with claims later.
When to Call Water Damage Pros
If your home takes on water, even from rain, quick action helps prevent mold and structural issues. After you file a claim and your insurer gives the go-ahead, local water damage pros can extract standing water, dry out walls and floors, and map moisture to find hidden pockets. They do not handle insurance claims, but their documentation can support yours.
The work usually involves water extraction, structural drying, and dehumidification to prevent mold growth. They may also remove damaged drywall, flooring, or insulation. Keep a list of local pros handy before a storm hits. Acting quickly can reduce the damage and make the cleanup more manageable.
- Extract standing water from floors and carpets
- Set up industrial dehumidifiers and air movers to dry structures
- Map moisture levels in walls and ceilings to find hidden water
- Remove water-damaged drywall, flooring, and insulation
- Inspect for mold growth and recommend a mold professional if needed
- Document the extent of damage for your insurance claim
Water damage does not wait
Call (817) 799-6732 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.
Call Now (817) 799-6732Frequently asked questions
Do I need separate flood insurance for hurricane flooding?
Yes, standard homeowners policies exclude flood damage, including storm surge. Flood insurance is a separate policy, often through the National Flood Insurance Program. If you live in a flood-prone area, it is worth considering. Check your policy to see what it covers.
What should I do immediately after a hurricane hits my home?
First, make sure it is safe to enter. Then document all damage with photos and videos, make temporary repairs like tarping the roof to prevent more water, and contact your insurance company to start a claim. Keep receipts for any supplies you buy.
Can I file a claim for both wind and flood damage?
Yes, if you have both homeowners and flood insurance. Your insurers may coordinate to split the claim based on the cause of damage. Be clear about what happened, and provide documentation. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.