Save on Insurance Premiums Without Sacrificing Coverage

Navigating the complex world of insurance doesn’t have to be overwhelming. For property owners, one of the most impactful ways to reduce premiums while maintaining excellent coverage is by reviewing and optimizing their insurance policies. 

Understanding Your Policy

Insurance policies consist of various components, including deductibles, coverage limits, and endorsements. Understanding these elements allows property owners to assess their policies effectively.

Deductibles

High deductibles often result in lower premiums. However, property owners should evaluate their financial capacity to cover the deductible in the event of a claim.

Coverage Limits

Reviewing coverage limits ensures adequate protection without overpaying for excessive coverage. Assess the property’s value and adjust coverage limits accordingly.

Endorsements

Additional coverages can be added through endorsements. Evaluate the necessity of endorsements based on the property’s specific needs to avoid unnecessary expenses.

Regular Policy Reviews

Insurance needs can evolve over time due to changes in property value, renovations, or lifestyle. Regular policy reviews, ideally conducted annually, allow property owners to align their coverage with their current requirements. By staying proactive, policyholders can identify potential areas for savings to reduce premiums and optimize their coverage.

Risk Mitigation Strategies

Implementing risk mitigation measures can lead to lower premiums. Property owners can consider:

Security Systems

Installing security systems, such as alarms and surveillance cameras, can reduce the property’s risk, leading to potential premium discounts.

Maintenance

Proper maintenance, including roof repairs, electrical updates, and plumbing improvements, demonstrates responsible property ownership and can result in reduced premiums.

Bundling Policies

Combining multiple insurance policies (e.g., property and auto) with the same insurer often results in substantial discounts, making it a cost-effective choice for property owners.

Policy Shopping and Comparison

Periodically shopping for insurance quotes and comparing policies from different providers is a proactive approach to securing competitive premiums. Additionally, it’s essential to obtain quotes from reputable insurers, ensuring a balance between cost and coverage quality.

Consulting with a Public Adjuster

Engaging a public adjuster, like those at Premier Claims, can significantly impact premium savings. Public adjusters have in-depth knowledge of insurance policies and can guide the policyholder on to best protect themselves and their property. Their expertise aids policyholders attempting to receive fair treatment and optimal coverage for their premiums. 

Property owners who invest time in understanding their policies, conducting regular reviews, implementing risk mitigation strategies, and exploring their options can achieve significant savings on premiums. By staying informed and proactive, property owners can make educated decisions that lead to substantial financial benefits.

Our team of seasoned public adjusters are on standby to assist you through the complexities of insurance coverage. To provide you with a comprehensive and accurate review of your policy, we invite you to complete our policy review. Subsequently, our team members will review your policy in-depth and reach back out to go over their findings at your convenience, allowing you to get the help you deserve!

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What Is a Position Letter?

Position Letters 101: Your Secret Weapon in Insurance Claims

If you’ve ever filed an insurance claim, you know the process can feel like running an obstacle course—except the obstacles are confusing terminology and red tape. One term that might make you pause is “position letter.” Don’t worry; it’s simpler than it sounds. Let’s break it down. 

What Exactly is a Position Letter?

A position letter is your chance to clearly state your argument when there’s a dispute about an insurance claim. Think of it as the “closing argument” in the courtroom of claims. It’s a formal document explaining what happened, why your claim deserves to be paid, and the evidence to back up the claim. 

But it’s not just about telling your side of the story; it’s about doing it in a way that makes the insurance carrier take you seriously. A good position letter doesn’t just say, “Pay me.” It says, “Here’s why you need to pay me, and here’s the proof to back it up.”

Why Are Position Letters Important? 

Insurance carriers are bombarded with claims, and if you don’t stand out, it might get shuffled to the bottom of the pile—or worse, denied outright. A position letter can:

Clarify Discrepancies

If the insurance carrier has made an initial determination that the policyholder disagrees with, the position letter provides the policyholder an opportunity to clarify their side. 

Strengthen the Claim

A position letter allows the policyholder to present supporting evidence in an organized manner to help support their claim.

Set the Stage for Negotiation

If the claim is disputed or underpaid, the position letter can act as the opening salvo in a negotiation process. 

Establish Documentation

A well-documented position letter can also serve as a record that may be referenced later in the process or court, should things escalate. 

When Should You Send A Position Letter to Your Carrier? 

Typically, position letters are sent after an insurance carrier denies a claim or offers an insultingly low amount. They’re often a prelude to more formal action, like hiring a public adjuster or filing a lawsuit.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t panic. There’s plenty of help available!

Contact Premier Claims today!

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Public Adjuster Near Me: Things to Look for and Consider

Recovering from the devastation of storm damage is a complex process, and having a reliable public adjuster by your side can make all the difference. The aftermath of a natural disaster is overwhelming, especially when it comes to dealing with insurance claims. Partnering with a public adjuster who understands the challenges you face and tailors them to you and your property’s needs helps streamline the claims process. Moreover, a public adjuster is your advocate, equipped with the expertise and knowledge to navigate the intricate landscape of insurance policies. Their partnership allows you to better equip yourself to fight for a fair settlement, enabling you to rebuild and restore your life. Now, you may be asking, how do I find a public adjuster near me?

Top 5 Things to Look For in a Public Adjuster

1. Verify Licensing & Accreditation

Ensure the public adjuster you consider is licensed and accredited by the relevant regulatory bodies. This accreditation validates their expertise and adherence to industry standards, providing you with confidence in their professionalism.

2. Evaluate Experience & Specialization

Look for an adjuster with a proven track record in handling various types of damages, such as water damage, hail damage, fire damage, and hurricane damage. Specialization in specific areas ensures they possess the expertise needed to handle your unique situation effectively.

3. Transparency & Trustworthiness

Transparent communication about fees, the claims process, and the expected timeline are essential. Furthermore, a trustworthy public adjuster maintains open and honest communication, ensuring you are well informed at every step.

4. Check Client Testimonials and Reviews

Reading testimonials and reviews from previous clients provides valuable insights into the adjuster’s reputation and the satisfaction of their clients. Premier Claims takes pride in its positive client feedback, reflecting our commitment to excellent service and successful outcomes.

5. Investigate Communication & Availability

Effective communication is key to a successful partnership. Evaluate the adjuster’s responsiveness and availability. Premier Claims ensures that our team is readily available to address your concerns and provide updates, offering you peace of mind during the claims process.

Why Choose Premier Claims?

At Premier Claims, our expertise goes beyond mere professional qualifications. Our team, consisting of industry veterans with advanced certifications and ongoing education, ensures we stay ahead of industry trends and policy changes. A public adjuster with a fully equipped team of professionals can significantly impact the outcome of your claim for the better. Premier Claims is dedicated to surpassing industry standards by incorporating innovation, technology, and a meticulous claim management process. Our six-step process is committed to delivering unparalleled results and safeguarding your interests at every stage. Certain states may have regulations that determine the services a public adjuster may provide. Our process and services we are able to provide will be based on the state regulations. To learn more, visit our Public Adjuster Legal Disclaimer. When you choose Premier Claims, you benefit from:

Expert Knowledge & Continuous Education

Our professionals hold advanced degrees and certifications, constantly updating their skills to navigate the ever-evolving insurance landscape effectively.

Tailored Strategies for Maximum Results

We understand the uniqueness of each case. Consequently, our team creates customized strategies, attempting to maximize your settlement based on the intricacies of your specific situation.

Supporting You Beyond the Claim

Our team actively offers personalized policy guidance, addresses industry inquiries, and commits to providing you with tailored support. We’re here to ensure your peace of mind extends beyond the claims process, offering expertise and assistance whenever you need it.

Your journey to reclaiming your life after storm damage begins with choosing the right public adjuster. Moreover, Premier Claims combines expertise, integrity, and a genuine commitment to your well-being. Contact Premier Claims today to discover how we can help you and your property!

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New Endorsements May Impact the Claims Process for Property Owners

Understanding Roofing Materials Payment Schedule Endorsements

How They Affect Property Owners

When it comes to roofing claims, understanding the fine print of your insurance policy can make or break your claim. A key detail to watch for is the roofing materials payment schedule endorsement—a clause that determines how and when your insurance carrier will reimburse the cost of roofing materials. If you’re a property owner managing costs, knowing the ins and outs of this endorsement can help you avoid unnecessary delays or expenses.

How Does This Affect Property Owners?

For property owners, a roofing materials payment schedule endorsement can have several implications:

What Can Property Owners Do?

How Premier Claims Can Help

At Premier Claims, we specialize in navigating the complexities of insurance claims. If you’re dealing with roofing material payment schedules or any other endorsements, we can help you understand your policy, advocate for fair reimbursement, and provide a smoother claims process. Reach out to our team today!

Reach out to our team today!

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Roofing Materials Payment Schedule Endorsements Explained

Everything You Need to Know About Roofing Materials Payment Schedule Endorsements

Insurance policies are constantly evolving, and recent changes in the insurance industry—like Progressive Home’s shift toward owner-occupied homes—make it more critical than ever for property owners and contractors to stay informed about crucial policy updates. One such change involves endorsing payment schedules for roofing materials, which is becoming increasingly common in homeowners’ policies. But what exactly does this endorsement mean for property owners and contractors? And why is it crucial to understand?

What is a Roofing Materials Payment Schedule Endorsement?

A roofing materials payment schedule endorsement is an add-on to your homeowner’s insurance policy that outlines how roofing materials will be paid after storm damage. Typically, after your roof is damaged, your insurance policy will cover the cost of repairs or replacement. With this endorsement, however, the insurer may not provide a lump sum for the materials upfront—instead, payments may be broken up according to a specific schedule. Property Claims Attorneys  reports, “Instead of providing a full replacement cost for a damaged roof, this schedule adjusts the settlement amount based on the age and type of roofing material.”

This endorsement often requires homeowners to pay for roofing materials upfront and wait for reimbursement from their insurance carrier according to the policy’s terms. The schedule sets expectations for when and how payments will be made, and it could vary from one insurer to another.

Why Do Insurance Carriers Include This Endorsement?

The roofing materials payment schedule endorsement isn’t about simplifying policies—it’s about minimizing insurance carriers’ financial exposure. As storm damage claims costs rise, insurers increasingly shift financial responsibility to policyholders. This endorsement allows insurers to depreciate the cost of roof repairs or replacements based on the age of the roofing materials, meaning homeowners may receive far less than they expect.

One key aspect of this endorsement is depreciation. Insurance carriers calculate depreciation based on the age and condition of your roof. For example, if your roof is 10 years old, you might only receive reimbursement for a portion of the material’s current value, even if the materials were new when installed. This can lead to significant out-of-pocket expenses for homeowners, especially when replacing a roof, which can cost thousands of dollars.

PC360 reported, “Progressive Home will focus on ensuring owner-occupied homes and bundled business policies, increasing minimum wind and hail deductibles, mandating the roofing materials payment schedule endorsement, and ensuring its agents are aligned on underwriting quality expectations.”

Translation:

Insurance carriers are making strategic moves to limit their exposure, often at the expense of policyholders. They disguise this endorsement as a way for policyholders to get a discounted premium. But what’s the real cost? Do policyholders fully understand what they agree to when signing up for these endorsements? The reality is that many policyholders don’t know what they’re signing up for, leaving them vulnerable to unexpected costs and coverage gaps. The focus is on creating policies that prioritize long-term financial stability for insurers while leaving property owners to decipher complicated endorsements and shoulder higher out-of-pocket costs. At Premier Claims, we see this shift as a way for insurers to protect their profits while leaving policyholders in the dark.

How Can Property Owners Navigate This Endorsement?

Planning ahead is crucial if your policy includes an endorsement of the roofing materials payment schedule. Homeowners should:

Why It’s Crucial to Stay Informed

Property owners need to review their homeowner’s policy to determine whether a roofing materials payment schedule endorsement is included. By understanding your policy and working with a trusted public adjuster, you can better navigate the claims process and hopefully create a solid foundation to receive proper reimbursement. 

If you’re unsure whether your policy includes a roofing materials payment schedule endorsement or if you’re dealing with an underpaid claim, contact Premier Claims today! We’re here to help you every step of the way.

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Additional Living Expenses for Commercial Properties

Owning commercial property comes with its own set of challenges, especially when unforeseen events disrupt business operations. Additional Living Expenses (ALE) coverage, often overlooked by commercial property owners, can be a crucial aspect of recovery. Premier Claims is here to shed light on ALE coverage for commercial properties.

Understanding Additional Living Expenses (ALE) for Commercial Properties

Navigating Commercial ALE

Additional Living Expenses (ALE) for commercial properties serve a purpose similar to its residential counterpart. In the event of covered perils, such as fire, flood, or other disasters, ALE can provide financial support for temporary relocation and ongoing business operations.

Business Interruption and ALE

What your insurance carrier may not explicitly outline is the interplay between Business Interruption (BI) coverage and ALE. While ALE is designed for the physical relocation of the business, BI coverage addresses financial losses resulting from the interruption. It’s crucial to understand how these two components work together as they aim to provide comprehensive coverage for your commercial property.

Coverage Limitations

Commercial property insurance policies may not thoroughly detail the limitations of Additional Living Expenses coverage. Your insurance carrier may not expressly communicate what expenses are covered and the extent of reimbursement. It’s imperative to review your policy with a keen eye for those details or seek professional guidance to avoid potential gaps in coverage.

The Importance of Detailed Documentation

Temporary Relocation Costs

Your insurance may not stress enough the importance of documenting not only the costs associated with temporary relocation but also the impact on business operations. Detailed records of expenses such as equipment rentals, storage, and the logistical aspects of maintaining or relocating operations are crucial for a smooth claims process & recovery.

Communication Protocols

Keep your insurance carrier informed about any changes in your business’s status or unexpected expenses. Open and transparent communication can expedite the claims process and prevent potential disputes.

Seeking Professional Guidance

At Premier Claims, we understand the intricate needs of commercial property owners. Our specialized expertise goes beyond conventional insurance knowledge to address the unique challenges faced by businesses during property damage incidents. We commit to standing by your side, providing comprehensive guidance tailored to your properties and business needs, and aiming to thoroughly assess and document every aspect of your commercial ALE claim. Our goal is not only to secure the coverage you deserve but to make the claims process as seamless as possible.

For commercial property owners, Additional Living Expenses (ALE) coverage is an often overlooked but critical component of insurance. Understanding the intricacies of ALE for commercial properties empowers you to safeguard your business during challenging times. Premier Claims is your dedicated partner, offering not only guidance but also proactive advocacy to navigate the complexities of commercial ALE claims.

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Are You Underinsured?

The Silent Risk Lurking in Your Business Insurance

When was the last time you reviewed your property insurance policy? If you’re like most business owners, the answer is probably “too long ago.” Unfortunately, complacency could cost you everything. Recent market changes—skyrocketing construction costs, supply chain delays, and increasing natural disasters—mean your coverage from two years ago may not cover you today.

In the last two years, the cost of construction has exploded. According to a report by the Associated General Contractors of America, construction material costs rose 10.1% in 2022 alone. This sharp spike could mean the cost to rebuild or repair your property is significantly higher than when you first signed your policy. If your policy was written based on outdated values, you could pay out of pocket to cover the difference. There is no need to panic, though; our team is here to give you the tools to protect your property and your business best. 

Understanding Your Insurance Policy

What “Replacement Cost” Really Means (And Why It’s Misleading)

Many business owners falsely believe replacement cost coverage will cover the total cost of rebuilding their property, regardless of market changes. In reality, the term “replacement cost” only applies to the maximum amount of coverage explicitly listed in your policy. It doesn’t automatically adjust for inflation or increasing material costs. If the limits in your policy haven’t been updated to reflect current market values, you’re left exposed. 

The Underinsurance Epidemic in Commercial Properties

According to a study by Marshall & Swift/Boeckh, 75% of commercial properties in the United States are underinsured by an average of 40%. This staggering statistic means most businesses facing a catastrophic loss will find themselves unable to rebuild or repair their property fully. Even worse, those same businesses might not even realize they’re underinsured until they file a claim—potentially leaving them on the hook for tens or hundreds of thousands of dollars in unexpected costs.

No business or person should have to go through this. While our current insurance climate may not be in favor of the insured, Premier Claims is here to fight for your right to a fair claim and an adequate policy.

When Disaster Strikes

Natural disasters aren’t a hypothetical risk. In 2024 alone, there have been 20 confirmed weather/climate disaster events in the United States, “with losses exceeding $1,000,000,000 each,” according to the National Centers for Environmental Information. This includes everything from hurricanes and floods to wildfires and tornadoes—events that often devastate businesses and lead to major insurance claims.

Unfortunately, underinsured businesses are far less likely to recover. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) estimates 40% to 60% of small businesses never reopen after a disaster. For those with insufficient coverage, the financial burden is simply too great.

Updating Your Policy Fell Through the Cracks

Running a business is no small feat. With countless responsibilities on your plate—handling operations, growing your customer base, and managing employees—reviewing your insurance policy typically doesn’t make the top of the to-do list. And that’s completely understandable.

For many business owners, the insurance policy they signed years ago feels like a safety net. It’s easy to assume that it will continue to protect your business, no matter how much time passes or how the market changes. After all, you should be able to trust your insurance carrier has your best interest in mind. At least, you would think!

The problem is that policies don’t automatically update to reflect your property’s changing needs. It’s not your fault if you didn’t know; no one’s given you a reason to look. 

 Regularly reviewing your policy might seem unnecessary, especially if you’ve never experienced issues with your carrier. With the rapid changes in the industry and the increasing frequency of natural disasters, we recommend an annual review of your coverage to keep up with reality.

The Real Solution: Regular Policy Reviews

The good news? Preventing underinsurance is relatively easy. Regular policy reviews, ideally every year, ensure your policy reflects the current needs of your property, thereby keeping you and your business protected.

Our team of legal professionals provides complimentary policy reviews to try to identify any gaps in your coverage. If necessary, it may be worth discussing adding an Inflation Guard Endorsement and ACV coverage to your policy. 

Inflation Guard Endorsement

A rider that automatically adjusts your policy limits to account for rising construction costs.

Actual Cash Value Coverage

A policy provision that compensates policyholders for the current market value of damaged or lost property, rather than replacement cost. ACV takes into account depreciation, meaning the payout reflects the item’s value at the time of the loss. 

Take Action Before It’s Too Late

Underinsurance is a risk no business can afford to ignore. The consequences of insufficient coverage are severe—from devastating financial losses to permanent business closure. Rising construction costs, natural disasters, and the complexities of modern insurance policies make reviewing and updating your coverage more important than ever.

Not sure if you’re underinsured? Don’t wait until the next disaster to find out.

Contact our team today for a free policy review!

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How Climate Drives Insurance Rates and Property Damage

How Climate Drives Insurance Rates and Property Damage

Weathering the Unexpected

In the wake of recent storms, many property owners are realizing how unpredictable the weather—and their insurance coverage—can be. Severe weather events are becoming more frequent and more destructive, pushing property owners and insurers to the brink of financial strain. Understanding the relationship between climate risks and property insurance premiums is crucial for anyone looking to protect their property and finances best. 

The Increasing Frequency and Severity of Natural Disasters

It’s no secret natural disasters are occurring more frequently. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the U.S. experienced 18 weather-related disasters in 2022, each causing at least $1 billion in damage, tying 2022 with 2011 and 2017 for the third-highest number of such events. This continues a trend of increasing disaster frequency and severity driven by factors like higher temperatures and extreme weather events.

The Impact of Climate Risks on Property Insurance Costs

Areas prone to natural disasters, such as hurricanes, wildfires, and tornadoes, are seeing significant increases in their insurance premiums. The Insurance Information Institute (III) reports that average home insurance premiums have risen by about 7% annually since 2017. The New York Post reported, “At $11,759, Florida has the highest average home insurance in the nation. In 2023, Floridian homeowners paid an average of $10,996 for coverage.” States like Nebraska, Oklahoma, and Louisiana also experience high insurance costs due to their exposure to tornadoes and hailstorms. 

The Cost of Rebuilding is Rising

One of the primary reasons for rising insurance costs is the increasing cost of rebuilding homes after disasters. According to the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), “Building materials prices are up 19.2% year over year and have risen 35.6% since the start of the pandemic.” This increase, paired with labor shortages, is driving up insurance premiums as insurers adjust for the higher claims payouts required for repairs. 

Credit Scores—An Overlooked Factor in Insurance Premium Rates

Beyond the risks of the climate driving insurance rates, your credit score plays a surprisingly large role in determining your insurance rates. Insurers often use credit-based insurance scores to assess the likelihood of filing a claim. Nerd Wallet found “that a person with good credit would pay $1,915 per year for homeowners insurance, on average. But in most states, someone with poor credit would see an average premium of $3,320 per year — more than 73% more.” This factor means that even if you live in a lower-risk state, a low credit score can still result in significantly higher premiums.​

Documenting Damage is Essential for Claim Success

When disaster strikes, your ability to document damage could be the difference between a fair payout and being left to shoulder repair costs on your own. Claims are often underpaid or denied due to poor documentation. Insurance carriers often seek ways to minimize payouts when evidence is lacking. Our team is here to help you set a strong foundation for your claim—starting with proper and thorough documentation. Contact our team today for claims assistance!

Push for Fair Treatment

Many property owners don’t realize that they can negotiate their insurance claims. A significant number of people who accept their insurer’s first settlement offer end up with less than the full value of their claim. This is where public adjusters come in. A public adjuster represents the policyholder—not the insurer—and can help fight for you to receive the payout you’re entitled to per your policy. They are skilled at negotiating with insurance carriers and often help policyholders recover more than they would on their own.

Planning for the Future

The rising cost of insurance and increasing frequency of natural disasters means property owners need to take a proactive approach to protecting their property. Understanding how local climate risks, insurance regulations, and economic trends impact your premiums will help you make better decisions. Consider reviewing your policy annually and consult with professionals to ensure you have adequate coverage for the specific risks in your region. 

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Hurricane Helene Damage: Wind vs. Water Coverage

Hurricane Helene brought a mix of powerful winds and torrential rain, leaving behind extensive damage. Property owners now face the challenge of filing claims, but many may not fully understand what their policies cover. Things can get murky when it comes to the differences between wind damage, water damage, and concurrent losses. 

Wind Damage vs. Water Damage: What’s Covered?

One of the most significant sources of confusion for property owners after a hurricane is the distinction between wind damage and water damage. Each type of damage is covered differently, so understanding the fine print is critical.

Wind Damage

If Hurricane Helene damaged your property by blowing off shingles, tearing apart windows, or causing structural damage, this is typically covered under standard hurricane or windstorm insurance. Wind-driven rain that enters through an opening caused by the storm is also typically covered.

Water Damage

However, damage caused by storm surges or rising floodwaters often requires a separate flood insurance policy. If your property sustained flood damage and you don’t have flood insurance, it’s unlikely to be covered under your standard policy. The National Flood Insurance Program outlines flood coverage applications and the required documents to prove the loss. 

To protect your property, check your policy for specific wording related to wind-driven rain and flooding. If you’re unsure, a public adjuster can help review your policy and provide clarity.

Concurrent Loss: When Wind and Water Collide

Post-Hurricane Helene, things can be tricky when wind and water team up to cause damage. This is called concurrent loss, and it can impact what your policy covers. Here’s the deal—if wind rips off the top of your roof and rain floods your home, you’ve got a mix of wind-driven and water damage. The problem? Insurance policies often treat them differently. 

Many standard policies cover wind damage but exclude flooding. So, if your damage is caused by both, your insurer might only pay for part of the claim—or worse, none at all—depending on whether you have flood exclusions in your policy. Some policies even include concurrent loss exclusions, meaning coverage can be delayed or denied if the excluded peril, such as flooding, is deemed the primary cause of the damage—even if wind damage, which is normally covered, occurs as a result.

CONCURRENT LOSS EXAMPLE

A commercial retail owner in the bend of Florida likely experienced wind damage during the storm. The wind could have damaged the roof and blown open doors and windows, allowing floodwaters to enter the property. After the storm, it’s often hard to tell whether wind or water caused the damage first. For policyholders without flood coverage but with causation coverage, they may still be covered under a wind loss. If you’ve had a mix of losses, consider having your policy reviewed by professionals to understand your coverage fully. To request a policy review from our team, you can submit a request here: Free Policy Review 

To see just how extensive the damage can be, ABC News gathered aerial footage of the flooding and wind destruction in North Carolina caused by Hurricane Helene. It’s a powerful reminder of the impact of concurrent loss.

 

Our team at Premier Claims knows how to advocate for the insured in instances like this. Having someone who knows the ins and outs of your insurance policy and how to match your damage accordingly can be the difference in the success of your hurricane claim. With the devastation of Hurricane Helene, nothing should be left to chance.

What You Need to Know About Hurricane Deductibles

Another often overlooked aspect of hurricane insurance is the hurricane deductible. Unlike a flat deductible, hurricane deductibles typically take a percentage of your property’s insured value. Some policies won’t specify a hurricane deductible, but will include something specific for wind. This often makes deductibles much higher than expected.

For example, if your property carries $500,000 in coverage and your policy includes a 3% hurricane deductible, you must cover the first $15,000 before insurance kicks in. 

As Ashley Workman, our Senior Paralegal, explains, “Recovery after a storm like Helene is complex, emotionally draining, and can often seem insurmountable, but understanding your policy and how to navigate the claims process can help. Check your policy for mitigation requirements, or requirements to protect your property from further loss. Most policies will outline your duty to take the steps necessary to avoid further damage. It’s important to remember to do the minimum to accomplish that. Keep a record of your expenses to be submitted for reimbursement. Excessive costs for mitigation can exacerbate claim difficulties, as your carrier could refuse to pay those large expenses.” 

Review your policy carefully to understand how your hurricane deductible works and how much you’ll be responsible for if you file a claim.

Take Control of Your Claim

Navigating your insurance policy after Hurricane Helene can feel overwhelming, but understanding key aspects of your coverage—like the difference between wind and water damage, hurricane deductibles, and concurrent losses—can help you take control of your claim. If you need help reviewing your policy or filing your claim, Premier Claims is here to guide you every step of the way. You don’t have to go through this alone; we’re here to help. Contact us today for immediate assistance!

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