Hurricanes Homeowners Insurance Flood

How to Protect Your Coastal Home from Hurricanes and Flood Damage

Wells Insurance
coastal home protection

Living along the North Carolina coast offers peace, beauty, and a lifestyle many people dream of. Yet coastal living also brings a unique set of risks during hurricane season. If you have worked hard to build a stable and comfortable retirement, it is important to know that your home insurance provides true protection when severe weather arrives.

Many homeowners believe they have full coverage until a storm reveals hidden gaps. This article will help you understand the essentials of wind, hail, and flood insurance, along with practical steps you can take to prepare your home. At Wells Insurance, our goal is to give you clarity and confidence in your coverage so you can protect the place that means so much to you.

Why Standard Home Insurance Is Not Always Enough

A typical homeowners policy covers some storm related damage, but coastal storms often involve hazards that require additional protection.

What your policy may cover:

What your policy may not cover:

  • Storm surge

  • Rising floodwater

  • Damage from wind driven rain if openings were not protected

  • Losses above special hurricane deductibles

This is why reviewing your policy regularly is important. Coastal conditions and building requirements change over time. Your insurance should keep up with those changes.

Understanding Wind and Hail Coverage

Homes in coastal counties often have separate deductibles for wind and hail. These deductibles are usually a percentage of your home’s insured value. Many homeowners are surprised by how large this amount becomes once a claim is filed.

A clear review with a trusted advisor helps you:

  • Understand exactly what your wind and hail deductible is

  • Confirm whether your home requires a specialized wind policy

  • Determine if your coverage limits match today’s rebuilding costs

Wells Insurance can walk through this with you step by step so you know how your policy performs before a storm, not after.

Why Flood Insurance Matters More Than Ever

Flooding is the most common and costly natural disaster in the United States. Standard home insurance does not cover floods caused by rising water. To protect against this risk, you must purchase a separate flood insurance policy through FEMA or the private flood market.

Flood insurance provides protection for:

  • Structural damage

  • Electrical and plumbing systems

  • Appliances

  • Flooring and walls

  • Personal belongings

Even if you live outside a high risk flood zone, coastal areas often experience unpredictable flooding during hurricanes, king tides, and heavy rain. Far too many coastal homeowners find out they needed flood insurance only after the damage is done. A simple review can help you avoid that situation.

Storm Proofing Tips for Coastal Homeowners

Insurance is essential, but additional preparation can reduce damage and speed up recovery.

Recommended steps:

  • Install storm shutters or rated impact windows

  • Secure outdoor furniture and loose items

  • Trim trees and remove weak branches

  • Inspect your roof for aging materials

  • Ensure gutters and drains are clear

  • Elevate valuables and important documents

  • Consider a whole home generator

  • Review your emergency supplies and evacuation plan

Small improvements can make a significant difference when storms approach.

Closing Coverage Gaps Before the Next Storm

Many gaps are easy to overlook:

  • Outdated coverage limits that do not reflect current construction costs

  • Missing flood coverage

  • Insufficient personal property limits

  • Detached garages or workshops that need separate evaluation

  • Older roofs that may trigger exclusions

At Wells Insurance, we take time to explain these items clearly. Our goal is not to overwhelm you with insurance terms. Our goal is to help you understand your protection and make informed decisions with confidence.

Wells Insurance: Here When You Need a Steady Hand

Coastal homeowners deserve clear information, reliable guidance, and a partner who understands the challenges of living near the water. Wells Insurance has served coastal communities for generations, and we take pride in helping retirees like you feel secure and supported.

If you would like to review your current protection or ask a question about wind, hail, or flood coverage, we are here to help.

Contact Wells Insurance today to ensure your coastal home is protected from the risks that matter most.

Because your home, your comfort, and your peace of mind deserve nothing less.