As storms become more costly, many homeowners are wondering if their homeowners policy is enough to cover their property and belongings. Understanding the nuances of storm coverage is essential for ensuring your family stays protected when the clouds roll in.
Understanding Wind vs. Water Damage 
In some parts of North Carolina, standard homeowners insurance may cover wind damage to roofs, windows and the home’s structure. However, in designated coastal counties, private insurers may exclude windstorm and hail coverage from your policy entirely. In those areas, wind coverage may need to be purchased separately.
Flood insurance is also typically excluded in a standard policy. It must be purchased separately, often through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or a private carrier.
The Role of Named Storm Deductibles
Homeowners insurance may include a separate named storm deductible. This deductible is triggered when the National Weather Service issues an advisory, watch or warning for a named storm affecting any part of the state, and remains in effect until 24 hours after the last such advisory or warning. The deductible is typically calculated as a percentage of your home's insured dwelling value rather than a flat dollar amount, which means it can be substantially higher than your standard deductible.
How We Support North Carolina Homeowners
Navigating the complexities of endorsements and policy limits can be overwhelming. At Jones - Byrd Insurance Agency , we work closely with our clients to identify gaps in their current policy. Whether you need to add a windstorm endorsement or explore options through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), we can provide the local knowledge necessary to build a well-rounded coverage portfolio.
If you have questions about your current limits or want to have the right endorsements in place, reach out to us today.
This blog is intended for informational and educational use only. It is not exhaustive and should not be construed as legal advice. Please contact your insurance professional for further information.