Florida averages one major hurricane landfall every 3–4 years. This guide covers what homeowners and contractors need to do before, during, and after a storm to protect their property and ensure their insurance claims are paid.
Review your policy declarations page: confirm dwelling coverage equals replacement cost (not market value). Confirm you have flood insurance — homeowners policies do NOT cover flood damage. Photograph all rooms, valuables, and exterior. Store policy documents and photos in cloud storage. Know your hurricane deductible: in Florida, it is typically 2–5% of dwelling value (not a flat dollar amount).
The most common claim denial after a Florida hurricane: the homeowner has homeowners insurance but no flood insurance. Wind damage (roof, windows, siding) is covered by homeowners. Storm surge and flooding is covered only by flood insurance (NFIP or private). If your home floods during a hurricane and you have no flood policy, the loss is not covered — regardless of what caused the flooding.
Example: $400,000 home, 2% hurricane deductible = $8,000 out of pocket before insurance pays. 5% hurricane deductible = $20,000 out of pocket. Most Florida homeowners policies have a separate, higher hurricane deductible that applies when a named storm is within 72 hours of landfall.
Wind damage from hurricanes is covered by standard homeowners insurance, subject to the hurricane deductible. Flood and storm surge are NOT covered — you need a separate flood policy.
File immediately after the storm. Florida law gives insurers 90 days to pay or deny claims after receiving proof of loss. Document all damage with photos before any repairs.
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