Water Damage from Storms and Hurricanes: How Insurance Policies Vary

Water Damage from Storms and Hurricanes: How Insurance Policies Vary

Storms and hurricanes can bring devastation to homes in just a few hours. One of the most common and costly outcomes is water damage flooded basements, roof leaks, soaked drywall, and damaged electrical systems. But when it comes to homeowners insurance, the question becomes: Is it covered?

The answer is not always simple. Different types of water damage from storms and hurricanes fall under different parts of your insurance policy or may not be covered at all. At Local Restore Pro, we help homeowners recover from storm damage and navigate insurance claims the right way.

Understanding the Types of Storm Water Damage

Storms and hurricanes can lead to water damage in several ways:

• Roof leaks from wind damage

• Floodwaters entering the home

• Broken windows allowing rain inside

• Sewer backups from heavy rainfall

• Structural damage allowing water intrusion

Each of these can be treated differently by your insurer depending on how the damage occurred and what kind of coverage you have.

What’s Usually Covered

Standard homeowners insurance typically covers:

• Wind-driven rain that enters through a damaged roof or wall

• Sudden water intrusion after structural damage caused by the storm

• Damage to personal property inside the home from water after wind damage

These are considered "sudden and accidental" damages caused by a covered peril (like wind or hail), so they’re usually eligible for a claim.

What’s Not Typically Covered

Most standard homeowners insurance does not cover flood damage. This includes water that enters your home from:

• Rising groundwater

• Flash floods

• Overflowing rivers, lakes, or storm drains
  

To protect against this, you’ll need a separate flood insurance policy available through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or private insurers.

Additionally, damage from sewer or drain backups caused by storms may only be covered if you have a specific backup rider in your policy.

Steps to Take After Storm Water Damage

1. Stay Safe First Avoid standing water with electrical hazards. Turn off the power if needed.

2. Contact Your Insurance Provider Immediately Report the damage quickly. Time limits may apply for storm-related claims.

3. Document Everything Take photos of damaged property, standing water, and the source of the intrusion. List all affected belongings with estimated values.

4. Call a Professional Restoration Company Local Restore Pro provides emergency services to stop further damage, extract water, and assess the scope of repairs. We also work directly with your insurer to document everything needed for your claim. Get FREE consultation here.

Don’t Wait to Review Your Coverage

With severe weather events increasing, it’s important to know what your policy covers before disaster strikes. Understanding your insurance, acting fast, and working with trusted restoration professionals can make all the difference.

Need help after a storm or hurricane? Fill out the form below for a FREE inspection and insurance claim support from Local Restore Pro.