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Report Shows 6.9 Million U.S. Homes at Risk for Hurricane Damage

With the 2017 hurricane season beginning 40 days prior to the traditional start date of June 1, the 2017 CoreLogic Storm Surge Analysis has found some 6.9 million U.S. homes are at risk for hurricane damage in 2017. As usual, the Atlantic and Gulf Coasts are cited as being the most vulnerable. If your home is located in one of these areas, you should be aware standard insurance policies don’t cover all hurricane-related damage. Now is a good time to compare homeowners’ insurance quotes to get the proper coverage for your home.

Flooding Causes Most Damage

In many cases, homes will withstand the winds and the rain of a hurricane only to be destroyed by storm surge flooding. Homeowners need to add specific flood insurance to their standard homeowners’ package to be covered for this. You probably have this insurance already if your home lies in what is known as a flood plain, as it would have been one of the stipulations of your mortgage contract. However, it’s a good idea to check to be sure, as well as confirm the coverage you have has kept pace with the rising costs of building materials and labor. If something does happen to your home, you want your policy to reflect its current, accurate value so you’re not out thousands of dollars.

Winds Are Generally Covered

Most basic homeowners policies cover wind damage, including broken windows and compromised roofing, as well as interior damage sustained by winds blowing water into the home. Trees can be a major source of damage in hurricane winds and this too is generally covered. With that said, most coverage of this type in areas known to be prone to hurricanes comes with a deductible. If you’re unfamiliar with the terms of your policy, make the time to review it before a storm hits so you can be prepared should disaster befall your home.

Prepping Your Home

A logical approach will serve you well when it comes to preparing your property to ride out a hurricane. High winds turn dead tree branches into missiles, so cut your trees back and remove dead limbs. Check your gutters and downspouts to make sure they’re secure and flowing freely. Give your roof a once-over to ensure all of the shingles are secured. If you have a leak you’ve been meaning to attend to, now’s the time. A portable generator will be a welcomed item if the grid goes down for a few days. Just remember to keep it outside, protected from moisture and at least 20 feet away from your doors and windows. Also, be careful to use it according to instructions.

Homeowners in storm-prone areas should also reinforce their doors and windows. Pro tip: installing weather-grade entryways can sometimes earn you a discount on your premiums!

Confirm Your Coverage Now

While damage incurred by winds will likely be covered by your standard policy, flood coverage requires separate flood insurance. The best time to compare homeowners’ insurance quotes to make sure you have the protection you need is before disaster strikes. Evaluate your coverage options with CoverHound online today!


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Insurance shopping simplified

Review personalized quotes, select coverages, and buy online - Everything insurance, all-in-one-place.

Insurance shopping simplified

Review personalized quotes, select coverages, and buy online - Everything insurance, all-in-one-place.
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