Navigating the World of Hurricane Deductibles in Florida

Homeowners insurance in Florida often includes a special type of deductible known as a “hurricane deductible.” This is a separate and higher deductible that applies specifically to damage caused by hurricanes. Unlike a standard deductible, which is typically a fixed dollar amount, a hurricane deductible is often a percentage of the home’s insured value.

For example, if a homeowner has a policy with a 2% hurricane deductible and their home is insured for $200,000, the hurricane deductible would be $4,000. This means that the homeowner would be responsible for paying the first $4,000 of damages caused by a hurricane, and the insurance company would cover the remaining damages up to the limit of the policy.

It is important to understand that hurricane deductibles are triggered by the National Weather Service declaring a hurricane, not by the actual damage sustained by the property. This means that even if a storm does not directly hit a property but is still declared a hurricane by the National Weather Service, the hurricane deductible would apply.

Homeowners should also be aware that not all insurance policies have the same hurricane deductibles. It is important to review the policy and understand the terms of the hurricane deductible before a storm hits.

In conclusion, hurricane deductibles are a unique aspect of homeowners insurance in Florida and it is important for homeowners to understand how they work and what triggers them. By understanding the terms of their policy and the hurricane deductible, homeowners can be better prepared in case of a storm. Contact the homeowner’s insurance attorneys at VCM Law Group for help with your insurance claim at 786-361-6887 or info@vcmlawgroup.com.