Windstorm Vs. Flood Coverage: Understanding the Gaps in Hurricane Insurance

Living in Florida means being prepared for hurricane season, and understanding your insurance options is a crucial part of that preparation. Many homeowners are surprised to learn their standard policies won’t protect them from all hurricane-related damage. Understanding the differences between windstorm and flood coverage can help you find where gaps may be.

What’s the Difference Between Windstorm and Flood Insurance?

Hurricane insurance isn’t a single policy. Instead, it’s a combination of coverages that address different risks:

• Windstorm coverage—This typically covers damage caused by high winds, such as those from hurricanes or tropical storms. It may include repairs to your roof, windows, siding, and other structural elements if they’re damaged by wind or flying debris.
• Flood insurance—Standard homeowners insurance does not usually cover flood damage. Flood insurance is a separate policy that covers losses caused by rising water, storm surge, or heavy rain that leads to flooding.

Common Coverage Gaps During Hurricanes

Many Florida homeowners assume their insurance will cover any hurricane damage, but their policies may have the following gaps:

• Wind vs. water damage—If wind damages your roof and rain enters your home, windstorm coverage may apply. However, if water enters due to flooding or storm surge, only flood insurance may cover those losses.
• Deductibles—Windstorm policies in Florida often have separate, higher deductibles for hurricane damage.
• Exclusions—Some policies may exclude windstorm or flood coverage entirely, especially in high-risk coastal areas.

Contact Us

The team at Iron Rock Insurance in Apollo Beach, FL specializes in helping residents navigate the complexities of hurricane insurance. We review your current policies, identify gaps, and recommend solutions tailored to your home’s location and risk profile.

Contact us today for a personalized quote or more information.

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.