What does hurricane cover include, and what is excluded?

Short answer

Wind damage is usually covered; flood often is not. The catch is the deductible, which for named storms is often a percentage of your insured value rather than a small fixed amount.

What is usually covered

• Damage to the roof, walls and windows caused by wind.
• Rain that enters through damage the wind caused.
• Damage to your belongings inside, if you have contents cover.
• Some policies pay temporary living costs if the home cannot be lived in.

What is usually left out

• Flood and storm surge, unless you have flood cover.
• A percentage deductible that can be thousands of dollars on a larger claim.
• Damage to trees, fences, sheds and pools, often limited or excluded.
• Losses caused by poor maintenance before the storm.

What to ask your agent

• Is the hurricane deductible a flat amount or a percentage, and of what?
• Does it apply per storm or per claim?
• Is storm surge treated as flood?
• Is there a waiting period if I buy or change my policy during hurricane season?

Do this now

Work out the actual deductible in dollars for your home. If the number would be hard to pay, ask your agent what a lower deductible costs.

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Last reviewed 18 October 2026. General information only. Cover varies by country, insurer and policy, so check your own policy wording.