How Natural Disasters Affect Homeowners Insurance

Natural disasters can cause significant damage to homes and property, and many homeowners are surprised to learn that not all disasters are covered the same way under a standard home insurance policy. Understanding how different natural events affect your coverage can help you avoid costly gaps.

Floods

Flood damage is not covered by standard homeowners insurance. This includes flooding caused by heavy rain, storm surge, or overflowing bodies of water. Flood insurance must be purchased separately, often through the National Flood Insurance Program or a private insurer.

Homeowners do not need to live in a high risk flood zone to experience flooding. Even moderate rainfall can lead to water damage, making flood coverage worth considering for many properties.

Earthquakes

Earthquake damage is also excluded from standard home insurance policies. Coverage for earthquakes is available through separate policies or endorsements, depending on location and insurer.

If you live in an area with seismic activity, even minor earthquakes can cause structural damage that is expensive to repair without proper coverage.

Hurricanes and Windstorms

Damage from hurricanes is typically covered under homeowners insurance, but coverage details matter. Wind damage is often included, while flooding caused by storm surge is not. In coastal or high risk areas, policies may carry separate hurricane or wind deductibles that are higher than standard deductibles.

Understanding your deductible structure and exclusions is critical before storm season begins.

How to Protect Yourself

Review your policy annually to understand what natural disasters are covered and what are excluded. Consider additional policies or endorsements if you live in an area prone to flooding, earthquakes, or severe storms. Keeping documentation of your home and belongings can also make claims easier if disaster strikes. Our biggest tip? Take a video of your home! Walk through your front door with the camera recording, and as you scan each room remember to highlight important jewelry stored in drawers, showcase important documentation, or feature antique furniture. Feel free to talk in the background and give detail if needed. Place this video on a flash drive or in the "cloud" to have should you ever need it (we sincerely hope you don't though!).

If you are unsure whether your current coverage is sufficient, an insurance agent can help you assess your risks and options.

(207) 363-7894 | www.tapleyagency.com | 300 York St . PO Box 808 . York, Maine 03909