Louisiana is one of the most hurricane-prone states in the nation. From the devastating impacts of Hurricane Katrina in 2005 to Hurricanes Laura and Delta in 2020, Louisiana homeowners know firsthand the importance of proper hurricane insurance coverage.
Understanding Hurricane Insurance in Louisiana
Standard homeowners insurance policies in Louisiana typically cover wind damage, but many policies in coastal areas exclude hurricane-related wind damage. This means you may need a separate wind and hail policy to be fully protected.
What Does Hurricane Insurance Cover?
Hurricane insurance generally covers damage caused by hurricane-force winds, including:
- Roof damage from high winds and flying debris
- Structural damage to walls, windows, and doors
- Water damage from rain entering through wind-damaged areas
- Debris removal after a storm
What Hurricane Insurance Does NOT Cover
It's critical to understand that standard hurricane/wind policies do NOT cover:
- Flood damage — This requires a separate flood insurance policy through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or a private flood insurer
- Storm surge — This is considered flooding, not wind damage
- Gradual water damage — Pre-existing leaks or maintenance issues
Hurricane Deductibles in Louisiana
Louisiana hurricane deductibles work differently from standard deductibles. Instead of a flat dollar amount, hurricane deductibles are typically a percentage of your home's insured value.
Common hurricane deductible percentages in Louisiana:
- 2% deductible — On a $200,000 home, you'd pay $4,000 before insurance kicks in
- 5% deductible — On a $200,000 home, you'd pay $10,000 out of pocket
How to Lower Your Hurricane Deductible
You can often lower your hurricane deductible by:
- Choosing a higher premium with a lower deductible
- Installing hurricane shutters or impact-resistant windows
- Upgrading your roof to meet current building codes
- Installing a whole-house generator
Filing Hurricane Insurance Claims
After a hurricane, follow these steps to file your claim:
- Document everything — Take photos and videos of all damage before making repairs
- Contact your insurance agent immediately — Call Capella Insurance Agency at 504-271-4064
- Make temporary repairs — Prevent further damage but keep receipts
- Keep a detailed inventory — List all damaged items with estimated values
- Meet with the adjuster — Be present when the insurance adjuster inspects your property
Why Choose Capella Insurance Agency for Hurricane Coverage?
As a local Allstate agency in Chalmette, Louisiana, Capella Insurance Agency understands the unique hurricane risks our community faces. Our team — Chick Capella, Christian Capella, and Desirie Dugas — has helped hundreds of Louisiana families navigate hurricane insurance claims and find the right coverage.
Call us at 504-271-4064 for a free hurricane insurance review.