Hurricane Insurance Checklist for Louisiana Homeowners
When it comes to hurricanes in Louisiana, it’s not a matter of if, but when. With storm season stretching from June through November and an increasing number of severe weather events in recent years, homeowners must act before a storm is named, not after.
We developed this Hurricane Season Insurance Checklist to help you stay protected before the next storm.
This guide walks through everything Louisiana homeowners should review to protect their homes, belongings, and peace of mind. At Accessible Insurance, we’re not a generic 1-800 number—we’re your neighbors. From South Louisiana to the Gulf Coast of Mississippi, we understand your risks because we live them too.
Let’s make sure you’re covered before the next storm hits.
Hurricane Insurance Checklist for Louisiana Homeowners
Before storm season ramps up, here are 10 things every homeowner should review on their insurance checklist:
- Confirm Wind and Hail coverage on your Homeowners Policy
- Check your Wind and Hail, Named Storm, or Hurricane Deductible and how it applies.
- Review exclusions for Flooding or Mold-related damage
- Purchase or review your separate Flood Insurance Policy
- Understand Loss of Use coverage applies if your home is uninhabitable
- Take a current home inventory with photos or video
- Store a copy of your policy in a waterproof, accessible location
- Add your Insurance Agent’s contact info to your phone
- Consider adding Umbrella Insurance for extended liability protection
- Schedule an annual review with a local Insurance Agent (January-March)
Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Hurricanes in Louisiana?
Homeowners Insurance in Louisiana typically covers certain types of hurricane damage—but not all. Here’s what you need to know:
Typically Covered:
- Wind and Hail damage (e.g., shingles blown off, downed trees, siding damage)
- Fire damage caused by downed power lines or electrical surges
Sometimes Covered:
- Cosmetic Hail Damage (e.g., awnings) is often excluded. Roof hail damage may be covered, but it varies by carrier.
Not Covered:
- Wind-driven rain (e.g., water intrusion under doors or windows not caused by structural damage)
- Flood damage from storm surge or heavy rainfall (covered by separate Flood Insurance Policy)
- Mold resulting from water intrusion or standing water
- Temporary housing unless Loss of Use is explicitly included
Do I Need Flood Insurance for Hurricanes in Louisiana?
Yes. Hurricane-related flooding is not covered under a standard Homeowners Policy. All homeowners need a separate Flood Insurance Policy.
Why Flood Insurance Matters:
- Louisiana has one of the highest rates of flooding in the country—even outside FEMA flood zones
- Just one inch of water can cause more than $25,000 in damage
- Flood Insurance Policies have a 30-day waiting period—plan ahead
- Over 25% of flood claims come from low-to-moderate risk areas
Use this tool to find your FEMA flood zone: FEMA Flood Map Service Center
Understanding Deductibles in Louisiana Policies
Louisiana policies often include multiple types of deductibles that apply during storm season:
Hurricane Deductible**
- Applies when the National Weather Service names an event to be categorized as a hurricane
- Typically, a percentage of your dwelling’s insured value, not a flat dollar amount
- Example: 5% on a $300,000 home = $15,000 out-of-pocket before coverage starts
Named Storm Deductible:
- Applies to any Named Storm, including tropical storms, hurricanes, named wind and winter events
- Typically, a percentage of your dwelling’s insured value, not a flat dollar amount
- Example: 5% on a $300,000 home = $15,000 out-of-pocket before coverage starts
Wind and Hail Deductible:
- Covers all Wind and Hail events, regardless of classification
All Other Peril (AOP) Deductible:
- Applies to all other non-specified perils
**Important Update: New legislation may require proof of deductible payment before insurers release recoverable depreciation. Learn more about House Bill 437, signed into law June 2025.
What Is Loss of Use Coverage?
Loss of Use coverage helps cover temporary living expenses if your home is uninhabitable due to physical damage.
Key Details:
- Does not apply to power outages alone
- Must be specifically included in your policy
How Can Umbrella Insurance Help During Hurricane Season?
Umbrella Insurance adds extra liability protection beyond your Homeowners or Auto policy limits.
Real-Life Scenarios:
- A tree from your yard crashes into your neighbor’s home and they sue
- Debris from your property injures someone during the storm
- Water from your failed roof damages a tenant’s belongings
Umbrella Insurance often costs less than $25/month and protects you against lawsuits, legal fees, and medical bills.
When Should I Review or Update My Insurance Before a Storm?
Ideally, review your insurance policies every January or no later than March so you can prepare for the season. But if you haven’t done it yet—don’t wait.
Key Timing Notes:
- Flood Insurance requires a 30-day waiting period
- Policy changes are locked out once a storm enters the Gulf of America
- Review coverages and deductibles prior to storm threats.
- Endorsements must be made before storm threats
What Louisiana Homeowners Need to Know About Storm Insurance Laws
Louisiana has some of the strictest insurance laws in the U.S. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Post-Katrina laws enforce stricter storm-resistant building codes
- Carriers cannot drop your coverage mid-season (except for nonpayment or fraud)
Visit the Louisiana Department of Insurance for updated laws, regulations, and assistance programs.
What Should I Do After a Hurricane Damages My Home?
In the event your home suffers storm damage, follow this checklist:
Immediately:
- Take detailed photos or videos of all damage (interior + exterior)
- Secure the property to prevent further damage (tarp the roof, board windows)
- Save all receipts for temporary repairs or living expenses
Then:
- Call your Insurance Agent or claims number as soon as it’s safe
- Don’t discard damaged items until an adjuster reviews them
- Request a full copy of your policy and deductible details if you don’t have them
Accessible Insurance clients get hands-on help navigating every step of the claims process.
Why Work with a Local Insurance Agency Like Accessible Insurance?
We’ve seen what bad coverage looks like—and what good guidance can prevent. Since the days after Hurricane Katrina, we’ve helped Louisiana homeowners protect what matters most.
- Locally owned and operated
- We know how to write policies for high-risk coastal areas
- We offer personalized policy audits with no pressure
Whether you live in New Orleans, Metairie, Kenner, Covington, Madisonville, or along the Mississippi Gulf Coast—we’re here to help.
FAQ: Hurricane Insurance Tips for Louisiana Homeowners
What’s the best hurricane insurance for Louisiana homeowners?
The best policy includes Wind and Hail coverage, a clearly defined Hurricane Deductible, and a separate Flood Insurance Policy. Bundling with Umbrella Insurance adds even more protection.
Can I buy flood insurance right before a storm?
No. Flood Insurance Policies have a 30-day waiting period.
What’s a Named Storm Deductible in Louisiana?
It’s a special deductible triggered by any storm named by the National Weather Service. It’s usually a percentage of the dwelling’s value.
How do I prepare my insurance for hurricane season?
Review your Homeowners Policy (recommended annually in March or April), verify deductibles, add a Flood Insurance Policy, and take a home inventory.
Is flood insurance required in Louisiana?
If you live in a FEMA-designated high-risk zone and have a mortgage, yes. Otherwise, it’s optional—but highly recommended.
Protect What Matters—Before the Storm Hits
Storm season is unpredictable; your insurance coverage shouldn’t be.
Whether you’re double-checking your current policies or need to start from scratch, the local agents at Accessible Insurance are here to guide you—no jargon, no pressure, just honest advice.