Louisiana homeowners insurance covers wind and rain damage from hurricanes, but it does NOT cover flood damage — which is the primary cause of hurricane-related losses in Louisiana. Specifically, your standard homeowners policy will pay for roof damage from high winds, broken windows, wind-driven rain intrusion, and structural damage from wind pressure. However, any damage caused by rising water, storm surge, or overflow from levees or waterways requires a separate flood insurance policy.
What Hurricane Damage Is Covered by Louisiana Homeowners Insurance?
Standard homeowners insurance in Louisiana covers wind-related damage including roof shingle loss, siding damage, fallen trees striking your home, and wind-driven rain that enters through a wind-created opening. Additionally, your policy covers damage to personal property inside the home if wind creates an opening that allows rain entry, and it typically provides additional living expenses if your home becomes uninhabitable due to covered wind damage.
Important Coverage Details
However, there is a critical distinction Louisiana homeowners must understand: if floodwater enters your home — even during a hurricane — your homeowners policy will not pay for that damage. In fact, during Hurricane Ida in 2021, many Louisiana homeowners discovered their losses were primarily flood-related and were denied homeowners claims. Consequently, carrying both homeowners and flood insurance is essential in Louisiana's hurricane-prone environment.
Understanding Louisiana's Named Storm Deductible
Importantly, most Louisiana homeowners policies include a separate "named storm" or "hurricane" deductible that is significantly higher than the standard deductible. Specifically, this deductible is typically 2-5% of your home's insured value rather than a flat dollar amount. For example, on a $300,000 home with a 2% hurricane deductible, you would pay the first $6,000 of any hurricane wind claim out of pocket.
In practice, this means Louisiana homeowners face substantial out-of-pocket costs even with active insurance coverage during hurricane events. Furthermore, some carriers in coastal parishes require even higher hurricane deductibles of 5-10%, particularly for properties south of I-10.
Steps to Take Before Hurricane Season
To ensure you have adequate protection before Louisiana's hurricane season (June 1 – November 30), review your policy with your agent to understand exactly what is and isn't covered. Additionally, consider purchasing flood insurance if you haven't already, and document your home's condition and contents with photos and video for potential claims.
For a comprehensive coverage review, get a free quote from Bridgeway Insurance or call 601-264-0541. We'll identify any gaps between your current coverage and Louisiana's specific hurricane risks.
Why Are Insurance Rates So High in Louisiana?
How Much Does Flood Insurance Cost in Louisiana?
