After a hurricane, homeowners may be surprised by how insurance deductibles work.
Understanding hurricane deductibles can help you plan financially for disaster recovery.
What Is a Hurricane Deductible?
Many insurance policies include a hurricane deductible, usually between 2% and 10% of the insured value of the home.
For example:
- If your home is insured for $300,000
- A 5% hurricane deductible would be $15,000
This amount must be paid before insurance coverage applies.
Hurricane Deductibles Apply Once Per Year
Florida law generally allows insurers to apply the hurricane deductible only once per calendar year for storms covered by the same insurance company.
If two hurricanes occur in the same year:
- The first claim may use the hurricane deductible
- The second claim may use the “All Other Perils” deductible
Florida’s Homeowner Claims Bill of Rights
Florida law includes the Homeowner Claims Bill of Rights under Florida Statute 627.7142, which outlines the rights and responsibilities of both policyholders and insurance companies.
Understanding these protections can help homeowners navigate the claims process more effectively.
Disclaimer: This information is not intended to take the place of legal advice. It is designed to inform you with basic information regarding hurricane preparedness and ways to protect yourself as a homeowner or renter after a disaster.
Need Legal Help?
Florida Rural Legal Services, Inc. (FRLS) is a non-profit law firm that provides free civil legal aid to eligible individuals, families, and vulnerable communities across 13 Florida counties, as well as to farmworkers statewide.
FRLS office locations:
- Belle Glade
- Fort Myers
- Port St. Lucie
- Immokalee
- Lakeland
- West Palm Beach
Our offices serve the following counties: Lee, Polk, Palm Beach, St. Lucie, Martin, Okeechobee, Indian River, Highlands, Hardee, Hendry, Charlotte, Desoto, and Glades.
You can contact us on our Intake Hotline at 1-888-582-3410.