Step 1
Read your declarations page now
It summarizes your coverage amounts (A through F), deductibles, and endorsements. This is the most important page of your policy.
Coverage Guide
Understanding Your Insurance Coverage Before Disaster Strikes
Most homeowners have never read their policy. Understanding what is covered, what is excluded, and how deductibles work — before a loss occurs — prevents the shock and confusion that derails claims.
- Homeowners (HO-3)
- Flood Insurance
- Hurricane Deductibles
- ALE Coverage
Key Steps
What you need to know
Step 2
Understand the difference between perils
Named peril policies only cover listed events. Open peril covers everything except what's specifically excluded. Know which you have.
Step 3
Check for flood exclusions
Standard homeowners policies do NOT cover flood. If you're in any risk area, you need separate flood insurance through NFIP or a private carrier.
Step 4
Know your deductible types
You may have different deductibles for different perils. Florida homeowners often have a separate hurricane deductible that's a percentage of dwelling value.
Key Takeaways
Standard homeowners insurance covers sudden/accidental damage — not flood, earthquake, or neglect
Flood insurance is always a separate policy, regardless of flood zone designation
Hurricane deductibles in FL are 2-10% of dwelling value — know yours before storm season
Replacement Cost Value (RCV) policies are worth the higher premium over Actual Cash Value (ACV)
ALE coverage (Coverage D) pays for temporary housing when your home is uninhabitable
Visual Reference
Insurance and restoration in practice
Real-world examples of the documentation, coordination, and processes involved in insurance claims.
Policy Review
Understanding your coverage before a loss prevents surprises during the claim.
Declarations Page
Your declarations page summarizes everything — coverage amounts, deductibles, endorsements.
Step-by-Step
How the process works
Understanding each step gives you leverage and helps prevent common problems.
1
Review your declarations page
Understand Coverage A (dwelling), B (other structures), C (personal property), D (ALE), and your deductibles.
2
Identify exclusions that apply to you
Flood, earthquake, mold caps, sewer backup, and gradual damage are common exclusions. Get endorsements for gaps.
3
Understand how depreciation works
With RCV, you get ACV first, then depreciation is released after repairs. With ACV only, you never recover depreciation.
4
Talk to your agent annually
Review coverage limits, discuss any renovations, and ensure your policy keeps up with reconstruction costs in your area.
State-specific notes
South Florida
Hurricane deductibles (2-10% of dwelling) apply only during named hurricanes. Citizens policyholders may have limited Ordinance & Law coverage.
Charlotte / NC
NC uses more standard ISO policy forms. Wind/hail deductibles may apply in coastal counties. NC DOI regulates rate increases.
Coastal SC
SC Wind and Hail Underwriting Association covers wind risk in coastal areas that private insurers won't. Know if you need this separate policy.
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Related insurance guides
Need help understanding your coverage?
Our team works with all major insurers and policy types. We can help you interpret your policy and ensure your restoration work aligns with your coverage.