Owning beachfront property comes with big rewards, from escaping the cold in winter to enjoying ocean views and lazy afternoons listening to the waves. But it also comes with risks in the form of heavy rain, strong winds, and flooding.
When a storm strikes, you need insurance coverage that gives you peace of mind no matter where you are. Making sure your second home has the right protection takes some planning. This guide will help you understand the key steps.
Start by looking closely at your current homeowners policy. Many second-home policies seem comprehensive but may exclude or limit coverage for hurricane-related damage. Roof repairs, debris removal, or temporary housing might be capped or missing altogether.
It is also important to understand how claims are paid. Policies that use actual cash value reduce payouts by subtracting depreciation. Replacement cost coverage, on the other hand, pays the amount needed to repair or replace damaged property. Knowing which applies to your home helps you avoid surprises after a storm.
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Once you know what your existing policy covers, consider where it falls short. In many coastal states, windstorm insurance is not automatically included and must be purchased separately. Without it, you may be responsible for paying for roof or siding damage yourself.
Flood insurance is another common gap. Standard homeowners policies rarely cover flooding, and protection must be purchased separately through the National Flood Insurance Program or a private insurer. Because flood policies usually have waiting periods before they take effect, it is important to put them in place well before hurricane season begins.
Even with the right types of insurance, you need to know how much protection you really have. Many policies set limits on categories such as roofs, fences, or landscaping. If your second home has upgrades like solar panels or custom decks, double-check that your coverage reflects their true value.
Pay close attention to deductibles as well. Hurricane deductibles are often percentage based, calculated on the insured value of your home. That percentage can add up quickly, creating thousands of dollars in out-of-pocket costs. Review those numbers now to understand what a claim could mean for your budget.
Finally, confirm whether your policy includes coverage for additional living expenses. This benefit (often called ALE) helps pay for hotels, meals, and rental housing if your home becomes uninhabitable.
Good records make insurance easier to use. Create a home inventory with photos, videos, receipts, and appraisals. Store it securely online so it is available even if you are away when a storm hits. Having proof of what you own can speed up the claims process and strengthen your case.
Timing also matters. Insurers often stop issuing or adjusting coverage once a storm watch is announced, and some require policies to be active for weeks before benefits apply. Reviewing and renewing your coverage well in advance of hurricane season ensures you are not caught off guard.
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Preparing for hurricane season means more than boarding up windows. By reviewing your current coverage, adding flood and windstorm protection, checking deductibles and limits, and keeping good records, you can protect your second home against the financial impact of a storm.
With the right policies in place, backed by a reliable insurer, you can enjoy your home knowing it is ready for whatever the season may bring. The Roehr Insurance team is here to help you evaluate your coverage and tailor it to your needs.
