Hurricane vs. Tropical Storm: What It Means for Your Insurance Coverage

Serving Port Jervis and Orange County, NY

When hurricane season arrives, protecting your home becomes a top priority—but many homeowners are unaware of just how much storm classification can affect their insurance coverage. Whether a weather event is labeled a tropical storm or a hurricane can dramatically impact your deductible and your overall financial responsibility after a storm.

Why Classification Matters: A Real-World Example

Let’s rewind to Hurricane Sandy, which affected the East Coast in 2012. Despite the name, Sandy was officially classified as a tropical storm when it hit parts of the region, including New Jersey. That classification spared thousands of homeowners from triggering hurricane deductibles, which are often much higher than standard home insurance deductibles.

To put it into perspective:If Sandy had been declared a hurricane, a homeowner with a $400,000 policy and a 5% hurricane deductible would have faced $20,000 out of pocket before their insurance kicked in. Because it was declared a tropical storm, many homeowners were only responsible for their flat-rate standard deductible—typically between $500 and $2,500.

This example underscores two critical points for homeowners in Port Jervis and across Orange County:

1. Storm classification has real financial consequences.

2. Hurricane deductibles are percentage-based and can cost thousands more than standard deductibles.

What Your Homeowners Policy May Not Cover

Another often-overlooked issue is flood damage. Whether caused by storm surge, overflowing rivers, or excessive rainfall, flooding is not covered by standard homeowners insurance policies. If your property is near water, in a low-lying area, or within a FEMA flood zone, you’ll want to seriously consider purchasing a separate flood insurance policy.

Even moderate flooding can lead to tens of thousands in damage—to your foundation, electrical systems, flooring, furniture, and more. And since many hurricane-related insurance claims are denied due to “flood exclusions,” having the right policies in place before a storm hits is critical.

Key Takeaways for Storm Season

• Storm classification affects your deductible. Tropical storms may trigger a lower deductible, while hurricanes can cost significantly more.

• Hurricane deductibles are usually calculated as a percentage of your home’s insured value, not a flat dollar amount.

• Flood damage is not covered by homeowners insurance. You’ll need a separate flood policy for protection against rising water or storm surge.

Is Your Coverage Ready for Hurricane Season?

Now is the perfect time to review your insurance policies—not after a storm has already formed off the coast. At Quick Insurance, we help homeowners in Port Jervis, Middletown, and across Orange County ensure they’re protected from every angle, from wind damage to flooding.

Let us review your current coverage and help you prepare for whatever the season brings. Don’t wait for the forecast—get prepared today.

Call Quick Insurance or visit us online for a free, no-obligation policy review. www.cquickinsurance.com