MCF

Floridians are no strangers to the threat of hurricanes. Having protection in the event that you experience property damage is a necessity for anyone living in the Sunshine State. Fortunately, you can add to your homeowners insurance policy to get coverage for the damage inflicted by these storms. 

Hurricane season spans from June 1 through to November 30. While residents living in coastal areas should be on the highest alert, almost anyone can be affected. If you are a homeowner, it’s in your best interest to understand what your hurricane insurance coverage is, potential policy limitations and how much the deductibles could cost. 

According to the WPBF, we could see anywhere between seven to nine hurricanes and two to four major hurricanes this season. Having a complete understanding of the details of your policy will help prepare you for the potential impact of these natural disasters. 

What is “Hurricane Insurance?” 

• The first thing you should know is: there is no standalone “hurricane insurance” policy.
• Rather, “hurricane insurance” is a combination of various insurance policies designed to protect homes from hurricane damage. These policies include flood, windstorm and home insurance. 
• Lenders frequently require homeowners insurance when purchasing a property. In Florida, wind and flood coverage can be added to a homeowner policy.

What’s Typically Included? 

A policy generally includes:

• Your home’s structure
• Harm inflicted on interior property and belongings indoors
• Outbuildings on your property
• Additional living expenses if your home become uninhabitable 

In the event of a hurricane in Florida, your policy may cover several natural events, including wind, wind gusts, hail, rain and tornadoes, provided they are a direct result of the hurricane. Each policy is unique and you will want to confirm what your policy covers with a MCF team member. 

What’s Not Included? 

Nearly 98% of Florida's inhabitants reside in a coastal county. For these coastal residents, it is crucial to understand what their hurricane insurance coverage does not include. Please take note that tropical storms are NOT included. The National Weather Service tracks and predicts tropical storms. But the National Hurricane Center must issue a hurricane watch or warning before your policy kicks in. Flooding isn’t included so you may want to consider purchasing a separate flood-insurance policy. Your vehicle is also not included. If you have questions about what is/isn’t included, it’s always best to talk to a MCF team member about your coverage details. 

Dealing with hurricane damage is stressful enough, but finding out that you have inadequate coverage drastically increases the impact of the storm on your life. Trust the insurance professionals at Massey, Clark, Fischer to help you understand the ins and outs of hurricane coverage so you’re better prepared in the event of a storm. Contact us today. 

Disclaimer: The above description provides a brief overview of the terms and phrases used within the insurance industry. These definitions are not applicable in all states or for all insurance and financial products. This is not an insurance contract. Other terms, conditions and exclusions apply. Please read your official policy for full details about coverages. These definitions do not alter or modify the terms of any insurance contract. If there is any conflict between these definitions and the provisions of the applicable insurance policy, the terms of the policy control.