As public adjusters, we often hear questions about how these deductibles work, especially during hurricane season. In general, a hurricane deductible is a specific amount you must pay out-of-pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in, and it’s typically higher than your standard deductible. The purpose is to help insurers manage the high costs associated with storm damage. Knowing how much you’ll need to cover can help you better prepare for the financial impact of a storm.
Single-season deductibles are another important aspect of hurricane coverage. In some cases, if multiple hurricanes hit within the same season, you might only need to pay your hurricane deductible once. This can be a huge relief for homeowners in areas prone to frequent storms. However, not all policies include this benefit, so it’s essential to review your insurance plan carefully.
If you're unsure about your policy or want to make sure you’re prepared, we recommend reaching out to our team for a review. We’ll walk you through your coverage, explain your deductibles, and make sure you’re not caught off guard when a storm hits.
Understanding Hurricane Deductibles
A hurricane deductible is separate from your standard homeowner’s insurance deductible. It usually applies to damage specifically caused by hurricanes and is calculated as a percentage of your home’s insured value. For example, if your home is insured for $200,000 and you have a 5% hurricane deductible, you’d need to pay $10,000 out-of-pocket before your insurance covers the rest.
This higher deductible is in place because hurricane damage can be extensive and costly to repair. It’s important to be aware of this amount so you can plan accordingly and avoid surprises.
What is a Single-Season Deductible?
A single-season deductible can be a game-changer for homeowners in hurricane-prone areas like Florida. If your policy includes this provision, you may only need to pay the hurricane deductible once per season, regardless of how many storms occur. This means that if your home is damaged by two or more hurricanes in a single season, you won’t have to pay the deductible again after the first storm. Not all policies offer this, so it’s worth checking your coverage to see if you’re protected in this way.
Hurricane Damage? Call Liberty Adjusters First!
After damage, most people decide to file a claim with their insurance companies right away- but there’s a better way. By calling a public adjuster, like us here at Liberty Adjusters, you can ensure your claim gets its maximum settlement payout.
Insurance companies will keep a diligent record of every mistake, and the system is practically rigged against you with all the hoops to jump through. Our team will manage your claim every step of the way, from filing the claim to negotiating in person with the insurance company during the inspection.
We know that dealing with insurance can be confusing, so we’re committed to helping you understand every detail. If you have questions about your hurricane or single-season deductible, or if you just want a professional to look over your policy, our team is ready to assist.
Get in touch with us today to ensure you’re prepared for whatever hurricane season throws your way.