Hurricane Deductibles in Florida: How They Work and Why They Matter

Florida homeowners face a unique insurance challenge during hurricane season: the hurricane deductible. Unlike standard deductibles, which apply to most claims, hurricane deductibles are triggered specifically by storms officially declared as hurricanes by the National Hurricane Center. These deductibles are a critical part of homeowners insurance policies in Florida, where the risk of storm damage is high.

Hurricane Insurance Deductibles Explained

A hurricane deductible applies when a hurricane warning is issued anywhere in Florida and remains in effect until 72 hours after the last warning ends. During this period, any windstorm-related damage falls under the hurricane deductible, which typically ranges from $500 to 10% of the insured value of the home. For example, if your home is insured for $250,000 and your hurricane deductible is set at 2%, you would be responsible for paying $5,000 out of pocket before your insurance coverage begins to cover the remaining damage.

This deductible is typically applied only once per calendar year, regardless of how many hurricanes strike. That means if your home is damaged by multiple storms in a single season, you won’t have to pay the deductible more than once.

Understanding your hurricane deductible is essential for financial preparedness. Many homeowners are surprised by the high out-of-pocket costs after a storm, especially if they’ve only considered their standard deductible. Reviewing your policy and knowing your deductible amount can help you plan ahead and avoid unexpected financial strain.

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In a state where hurricanes are a seasonal reality, being informed about how hurricane deductibles work—and why they matter—can make a significant difference in how well you recover after a storm. To review your insurance for hurricane season, contact Casual Insurance Group.

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.