Do You Have Enough Coverage for the 2024 Hurricane? Prepare Now to Protect Your Home
1. Understanding Hurricane Coverage
· Homeowners Insurance: Basic Protection Homeowners insurance typically covers damage to your home and personal belongings due to events like fire, theft, and sometimes, hurricanes. However, it usually doesn’t include flood damage. So, if a hurricane brings heavy rains and floods your home, you could be in a tough spot without flood insurance.
· Flood Insurance: Essential for Coastal Areas If you live in a coastal area or near a body of water, flood insurance is a must. It’s vital to check if your home is in a flood zone because standard homeowners policies do not cover flood-related damages. The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) offers policies that can protect your investment in case of a disaster.
· Windstorm Insurance: Additional Coverage Needed When a hurricane strikes, it often brings strong winds that can damage roofs, windows, and doors. Windstorm insurance can help cover the specific damages caused by those fierce winds. If you live in a high-risk area, consider whether you need this type of additional coverage.
1.2 Common Misconceptions — What Homeowners Insurance Typically Covers