Those who live in coastal locations that are prone to storms have a significant risk of being affected by storm surge. Homeowners may protect themselves against the possibility of suffering a financial loss as a result of damage caused by storms by purchasing hurricane insurance. Many homeowners are curious about whether or not their hurricane insurance covers damage caused by storm surges. In the following paragraphs, we will look at the answer to this question, along with some data and instances, in order to create a clearer picture of how storm insurance works.
What is a storm surge?
The term “storm surge” refers to an extraordinary increase in sea level that may occur as a result of hurricanes and other violent storms. It is brought on by a confluence of factors, including low air pressure and strong winds that drive the sea closer to the coast. A storm surge has the potential to inflict extensive flooding as well as major damage to houses and other buildings along the coast that are situated in low-lying regions.
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Is hurricane insurance obligated to cover damage caused by storm surge?
The answer to this inquiry is going to be dependent on the particular insurance policy and provider. Standard homeowner’s insurance plans do not often provide coverage for damage caused by flooding, including storm surge damage. This is the case for the majority of normal homeowner’s insurance policies. Homeowners will normally need to get a separate policy of flood insurance in order to be covered for any damage that may have been caused by floods.
On the other hand, some hurricane insurance plans could provide coverage for damage caused by storm surges when they occur as a consequence of hurricanes. It is necessary to do a thorough examination of the policy’s terms and conditions in order to identify the different categories of damage that are covered.
Insurance against hurricanes is often obtained as a standalone policy, in addition to a standard homeowner’s insurance plan. Its purpose is to provide protection against the many kinds of losses that might be incurred as a result of hurricanes, such as those brought on by strong winds, heavy rain, and other forms of catastrophes. In addition to covering the damage to the property, certain hurricane insurance plans may also cover extra living costs, such as hotel stays and food, in the event that the homeowner is had to flee their home as a result of the storm.
Damage caused by storm surges according to the statistics
The storm surge that may accompany hurricanes is considered to be one of the most serious risks. According to the National Hurricane Center, storm surges are responsible for the majority of fatalities that occur during storms. In fact, storm surges are responsible for nearly 49% of all deaths that are caused by hurricanes. Storm surges may be responsible for severe property damage in addition to the loss of life they inflict.
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During Hurricane Katrina in 2005, the storm surge was responsible for an estimated sixty billion dollars’ worth of damage, as stated in a study published by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). It is estimated that Hurricane Sandy, which made landfall in the Northeastern United States in 2012, caused $19 billion worth of damage, the majority of which was brought on by storm surge. These instances illustrate the considerable toll that a storm surge may have on a homeowner’s finances.
The following are some examples of coverage for hurricane insurance for storm surge:
As was indicated before, certain hurricane insurance plans may include coverage for storm surge as part of their offerings. Nevertheless, whether or not coverage is granted will be determined by the particular terms and circumstances of the insurance policy.
For instance, Citizens Property Insurance, which is managed by the state of Florida and provides insurance coverage, provides hurricane insurance plans that include coverage for storm surge. Citizens’ wind-only policy provides coverage for damage from storm surge, which is a frequent source of damage from tropical storms and hurricanes, as stated on the website of the firm.
In addition to insurance firms that are controlled by the state, several private insurance companies also issue hurricane insurance plans. Some of these policies may include coverage for storm surge. For instance, Chubb, a renowned supplier of property and casualty insurance, provides a hurricane insurance policy that covers different forms of damage caused by storms in addition to coverage for storm surge damage.
It is essential to be aware that the coverage for storm surge may be subject to a variety of restrictions and exceptions. Certain plans, for instance, may only give coverage up to a specified financial level and may not cover damage caused by flooding from other sources, such as a river or lake. Some policies, on the other hand, may provide full coverage.
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Conclusion
In conclusion, it is essential for homeowners living in coastal locations to have a thorough understanding of the dangers posed by storm surges and to thoroughly examine their insurance policies in order to identify the kinds of damage that are covered by such plans. It is vital to keep in mind that while though certain hurricane insurance plans could provide coverage for storm surge damage, such coverage can be subject to certain restrictions and exceptions. As a result of the potentially devastating effects that a storm surge may have on a homeowner’s finances, it is critical to be well-prepared and to take the necessary precautions to safeguard one’s property. This may involve making preparations for a hurricane or another kind of severe weather event by getting flood insurance, securing your property, and developing a plan of action to implement in the case of an emergency. If you take these precautions and have a solid working relationship with your insurance company, you may increase the likelihood that you will be covered in the case of a storm surge or another kind of natural catastrophe.