Storm & Hurricane Damage Guide
Storm damage claims are among the most disputed in insurance. The line between wind and water damage, hurricane deductible triggers, flood policy requirements, and FEMA assistance eligibility can mean tens of thousands of dollars in coverage differences. Understanding these distinctions before filing is critical.
First-Hour Priorities
Step 1
If your property sustained both wind and water damage, file two separate claims: one on your homeowners policy for wind damage (roof, siding, windows) and one on your flood policy for rising water or storm surge. Mixing them creates disputes and delays.
Step 2
Check your policy declarations page for the hurricane deductible—typically 2% or 5% of your home's insured value, NOT the claim amount. On a $400,000 home with a 2% hurricane deductible, you pay the first $8,000. Know this number before filing.
Step 3
Take photos that clearly show wind damage (torn shingles, structural) separately from water damage (waterline marks, surge). Label your photos. This separation directly affects which policy covers what and prevents disputes.
Step 4
Check if your county has a federal disaster declaration at DisasterAssistance.gov. FEMA Individual Assistance supplements—not replaces—insurance. Apply even if you have insurance, as FEMA may cover gaps like temporary housing.
Field Visuals
These examples show the conditions and response patterns our teams evaluate during active storm damage restoration.
Thorough documentation of damage patterns — separating wind from water — is the foundation of a successful storm damage claim. We prepare detailed reports before the adjuster arrives.
After major storms, insurance companies process thousands of claims simultaneously. Having professional documentation and a restoration partner who understands the claims process makes a significant difference in your settlement timeline.
Technical Workflow
This sequence keeps decisions measurable, documented, and aligned with insurance requirements and safe reconstruction.
We document all damage with clear separation between wind-caused damage (covered by homeowners) and water/flood damage (covered by flood policy). This separation is the foundation of successful storm claims.
We review your policy to identify your specific deductible (standard vs. hurricane), coverage limits, additional living expense provisions, and any exclusions that may affect your claim.
We prepare a detailed scope of work before the adjuster visit and walk through the property together. Our documentation supports your claim with measurements, material specifications, and code requirements.
If the initial estimate falls short, we prepare supplemental claims with additional documentation. For disputed items, we provide engineering reports, code citations, and industry standards to support fair settlement.
Florida
Florida has the highest hurricane deductibles in the nation (2-10% of insured value). The state also requires separate wind vs. flood claim filing. Citizens Insurance (state insurer of last resort) has specific rules for hurricane claims. Assignment of Benefits (AOB) reform has changed how restoration companies can interact with your claim.
North Carolina
NC hurricane deductibles are typically lower than Florida (1-5%). However, inland flooding from hurricanes (like Florence 2018) often catches homeowners without flood insurance. NC has a FAIR Plan for high-risk coastal properties that private insurers won't cover.
South Carolina
SC Wind & Hail Underwriting Association covers coastal properties. Hurricane deductibles range from 1-5%. Charleston and coastal properties often need separate wind and flood policies. Post-Hugo building code improvements may qualify for insurance discounts.
Continue Your Research
Our team navigates wind vs. water disputes, hurricane deductibles, and FEMA claims. We document damage to maximize your coverage.