Hurricanes are unpredictable and can cause severe damage in a matter of hours. After the storm passes, it can be overwhelming to know what to do next. Taking the right steps can help you recover more efficiently, protect your property from further damage, and get the most out of your insurance policy.
This guide walks you through the steps to take after a hurricane damages your home, vehicle, or personal property. It is designed for personal lines policyholders who carry homeowners, renters, or auto insurance.
1. Prioritize Safety First
Before doing anything else, make sure it’s safe to enter your home or move around your property. Hurricanes can leave behind hazards that may not be immediately obvious.
Check for the following before entering your home:
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Downed power lines or exposed wiring
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Flooded or standing water near electrical equipment
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Gas leaks or the smell of gas
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Structural damage like cracked walls, sagging ceilings, or broken windows
What to do:
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Wait for local authorities to declare your area safe
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Use flashlights instead of candles if power is out
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Shut off utilities if there’s damage or risk of fire or electrocution
2. Document the Damage
Once it’s safe, start documenting everything. Clear records are essential when filing an insurance claim. The more detail you can provide, the better.
Steps to document damage:
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Take wide-angle photos and close-up shots of all affected areas
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Record video walkthroughs of your home and property
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Make a list of damaged items, including estimated value, brand, and age if known
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Do not throw anything away until your insurance adjuster has seen it
Helpful tip: Save photos to cloud storage or email them to yourself to keep a backup
3. Prevent Further Damage
Most insurance policies require you to take reasonable steps to prevent additional damage after a loss. Doing so not only protects your property but also supports your claim.
Examples of protective actions:
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Cover broken windows with plywood or plastic sheeting
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Tarp over roof holes to prevent rain from getting in
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Remove wet carpets or furniture to avoid mold growth
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Shut off water supply if pipes are damaged
Keep receipts for any emergency repairs or temporary fixes you make. These may be reimbursable under your policy.
4. Contact Your Insurance Carrier
Reach out to your insurance carrier as soon as possible. Starting the claims process early helps you get on the path to recovery faster.
What to have ready:
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Policy number
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Description of the damage
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Date and time of the loss
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Photos or videos, if already available
Tips when making the call:
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Be clear and concise about what happened
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Ask what your policy covers and what the deductible is
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Inquire about temporary housing options if your home is uninhabitable
Your insurance provider will assign a claims adjuster to inspect your property and assess the loss
5. Understand the Claims Process
Every insurance company may have a slightly different process, but the general steps are similar.
Typical claims process:
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File a claim by phone, online, or through an app
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A claims adjuster contacts you to set up an inspection
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The adjuster reviews your damage and documents it
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You receive an estimate based on your coverage and policy limits
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If approved, your payment is issued (sometimes in stages)
Important reminders:
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Keep a log of all communication with your insurance company
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Save copies of every email and letter you receive
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Do not start major repairs before the adjuster visits, unless required for safety
6. Review Your Policy Coverage
Understanding your coverage is key to knowing what to expect during the claims process. Not all hurricane damage is treated the same under a policy.
Check your policy for:
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Windstorm or hurricane deductibles (often separate from standard deductibles)
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Coverage limits for structures and personal belongings
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Exclusions for flood damage
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Additional Living Expenses (ALE) coverage for temporary housing
If you are unsure about your coverage, reach out to your insurance carrier for clarification. Policies can be complex, but getting clarification now can help reduce surprises later.
7. Be Cautious When Hiring Contractors
After a hurricane, many contractors may be in high demand. Unfortunately, this is also a time when scams are more common. It’s important to take your time when selecting someone to do repairs.
Before hiring a contractor:
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Ask for proof of license and insurance
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Get everything in writing, including costs and timelines
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Avoid anyone who pressures you into quick decisions
Verify with your insurance company if the work must be approved before it begins.
8. Track All Expenses
You may incur extra costs while your home is being repaired or while you’re displaced. These could include hotel stays, meals, clothing, or temporary storage.
Be sure to:
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Save all receipts
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Record dates and reasons for each purchase
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Keep expenses organized in one place
If your policy includes Additional Living Expenses (ALE) coverage, many of these costs may be reimbursable, up to your policy limits.
9. Know What to Expect with Payouts
Insurance claim payouts vary based on your policy and the damage involved. Understanding the types of coverage helps you anticipate how payments may be issued.
Common types of payouts:
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Actual Cash Value (ACV): The value of the item minus depreciation
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Replacement Cost Value (RCV): The cost to replace the item with a new one of similar kind and quality
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Structure vs. contents: Payments may be split between your home’s structure and your personal property
Mortgage considerations: If you have a mortgage, your insurance check may be made out to both you and your lender. This is common, and the lender may need to sign off before repairs are paid
10. Follow Up and Stay Informed
Your claim may take time to be resolved, especially after a widespread storm. Stay in regular contact with your insurance company and follow up on any delays.
Stay proactive:
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Set calendar reminders for follow-ups
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Keep your adjuster’s contact info handy
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Ask for updates if you haven’t heard back in a reasonable time frame
Continue monitoring your home for additional damage or safety concerns, and document anything new that arises.
11. Take Time to Reassess Your Insurance Needs
After going through a claim, many people realize that their policy didn’t fully meet their needs. Once things settle down, it’s a good idea to review your coverage with your agent.
Areas to review:
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Dwelling coverage limits
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Personal property limits and inventory
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Flood insurance availability
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Windstorm deductible
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Coverage for detached structures, fences, pools, and landscaping
Updating your policy after a storm can help you be better prepared for future events.
Final Thoughts
Recovering from a hurricane takes time, energy, and patience. By following the right steps, you can protect your home, your belongings, and your financial well-being. Your insurance agent is there to guide you and answer your questions, so don’t hesitate to reach out for support.
Remember, every policy is different. Reading your documents carefully and keeping good records will help you stay in control during the claims process. And while insurance may not eliminate all the challenges after a hurricane, it can be a valuable resource for getting back on your feet.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for general informational purposes. Insurance coverage and eligibility may vary based on individual circumstances and carrier guidelines. No guarantees or promises are made regarding outcomes, coverage, or pricing. For personalized advice, please consult a licensed insurance professional.
