Is Hurricane Damage Covered by a Standard Homeowners Policy?
Last updated October 26, 2026
The short answer
What a Standard Policy Usually Covers
A standard homeowners policy typically covers damage from wind, including wind-driven rain that gets into your home through openings created by the storm. For example, if a hurricane tears off shingles and rain soaks your ceilings and walls, that damage may be covered. The policy usually pays for repairs to the structure and your personal belongings up to your limits.
Wind damage to trees or fences on your property may also be covered, though the details vary. If a tree falls on your house, the repair to your home is often covered. However, damage to the tree itself or to your lawn is usually not. Read your policy's language on wind and hail to see what is included.
Why Flooding Is Usually Excluded
Flooding from storm surge, rising rivers, or heavy rain that pools on the ground is almost always excluded from standard homeowners policies. This is a common gap that surprises many homeowners after a hurricane. If water enters your home from the ground up, you likely need separate flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program or a private insurer.
The distinction matters because hurricane damage can involve both wind and water. A policy may cover the wind-driven rain that comes through a roof, but not the floodwater that seeps through your foundation. To know what applies to your loss, document the source of the water and keep records of the damage.
- Wind-driven rain through a damaged roof or window is often covered.
- Storm surge and rising water are typically excluded.
- Separate flood insurance may be needed for ground-level water.
- Damage from a tree falling on your home is often covered.
- Damage to the tree itself or your lawn is usually not covered.
- Check your policy for specific wind and hail provisions.
How to Document Hurricane Damage
After a hurricane, your first step is to keep everyone safe and prevent further damage, such as covering a broken window with plywood. Then document everything. Take photos and videos of the damage, including the source of the water, before you move or throw anything away. This record helps you when you file a claim.
Make a list of damaged items, including their approximate age and value. Save receipts for any temporary repairs you make, like tarping a roof or renting a dehumidifier. Your insurer may reimburse those costs if they are reasonable. Keep all communication with your insurer in writing.
If you live in a coastal area, keep your policy documents and a list of your belongings in a safe, dry place before storm season.
Steps to Take After a Hurricane
Your priority is safety. Wait for local officials to say it is safe to return home. Watch for downed power lines, gas leaks, and structural damage. If you smell gas or see sparks, leave the area and call emergency services. Do not enter a home that looks unsafe.
Once it is safe, start drying out your home as soon as possible. Use fans and dehumidifiers to reduce moisture, and remove wet items that can grow mold. However, do not throw away damaged property before your insurer has a chance to inspect it, unless it is a health hazard. Take photos first.
If you feel unwell from mold or other contaminants, see a doctor.
When to Call in the Pros
After a hurricane, the pros can help with water damage cleanup, structural repairs, and mold prevention. They have the equipment to dry out your home and the skills to assess hidden damage. Calling them early can reduce the risk of secondary problems like mold growth.
The pros can also help with documentation and assessment, which may support your insurance claim. They can identify the extent of water damage and what repairs are needed. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered. For major damage, a structural repair professional may be necessary to make the home safe, addressing issues like sagging ceilings or weakened walls.
- Water damage cleanup helps remove standing water and dry out materials.
- Water damage assessment identifies hidden moisture and damage.
- Structural repairs after damage address safety issues.
- Furniture restoration may save items that are not too damaged.
- Storm water damage cleanup handles debris and water intrusion.
- Water damage repair services cover a range of post-storm needs.
Talk to someone now
Call (772) 758-7923 any time, day or night, and describe what happened.
Call Now (772) 758-7923Frequently asked questions
Does a standard policy cover wind damage from a hurricane?
Yes, wind damage is often covered under the wind and hail portion of a standard homeowners policy. This includes damage to your roof, siding, and windows from the storm. However, coverage limits and deductibles can vary, so check your policy for specific details.
What is the difference between wind and flood damage?
Wind damage comes from the force of the storm, like a tree falling on your roof or shingles blowing off. Flood damage comes from water that rises from the ground, such as storm surge or overflowing rivers. Standard policies cover wind but usually exclude flood, which requires separate insurance.
Should I buy flood insurance if I live in a hurricane zone?
If you live in a coastal area, flood insurance is worth considering because standard policies do not cover flood damage. Even if you are not in a high-risk flood zone, heavy rain can cause flooding. Talk to your insurance agent about your options.
More questions and answers
- Is Foundation Damage Covered by Standard Homeowners Insurance?
- Is Lightning Damage Covered by Standard Homeowners Insurance?
- Is Gradual Water Damage Covered Under Homeowners Policy?
- What Storm Damage Is Not Covered by Standard Insurance?
- Is Flood Damage Always Covered Under Homeowners Insurance?
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