Hurricane and named-storm deductibles in FL, TX, NC, SC, GA, MA, NJ, NY, MS, AL are a percentage of dwelling coverage (typically 2-5%), separate from your standard all-perils deductible. Computes out-of-pocket on damage.
Detailed instructions, formula notes, and US-context guidance shown in the calculator above.
Disclaimer: Estimate only. Consult a qualified professional for decisions with major financial, legal, or health consequences.
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Calculator information
📋 How to use this calculator
- Enter dwelling coverage (Coverage A) — typically replacement cost, not market value.
- Enter your hurricane deductible percentage (typically 2-5% in FL, NC, SC, TX).
- Enter your standard all-perils deductible (typically $1,000-2,500).
- Enter estimated storm damage and indicate if it was triggered by a named storm.
- Review applied deductible, out-of-pocket cost, and insurer payout.
🧮 Hurricane / Named-Storm Percentage Deductible
Deductible_owed = Coverage_A x Hurricane_% (if named storm)
- Named storm trigger: NWS names storm (varies by state — at watch, warning, or landfall)
- Percentage tiered by location: inland 2%, coastal 5%, barrier islands 10%+
- Separate from standard all-perils deductible ($1K-$2.5K typical)
- Applies per HURRICANE event (one deductible per storm season, not per claim)
- Florida + 18 other states have hurricane deductible laws; CA/AZ/MT etc. don't
Hurricane deductible only applies to wind/hail damage caused by a NAMED storm. Non-named storm wind damage uses regular deductible. Flood damage is excluded entirely (separate NFIP or private flood policy required). Triggering event varies: FL = named storm watch issued for any FL coast; TX = at FL landfall; NC = wind reaches state.
💡 Worked example: $60K damage from Hurricane Helena on $400K Florida home
Given:- Dwelling coverage A: $400,000
- Hurricane deductible: 2%
- All-perils deductible: $2,500
- Storm damage: $60,000 (roof + interior water)
- Storm named (Helena) → hurricane deductible applies
Steps:- Hurricane deductible: $400,000 x 2% = $8,000
- Compared to all-perils ($2,500) — hurricane is significantly higher
- OOP: $8,000 (you pay first)
- Insurer payout: $60,000 - $8,000 = $52,000
- If two separate hurricanes in same season hit you: $8,000 deductible PER storm
Result: Out of pocket $8,000 on this storm. Hurricane deductible adds $5,500 to your costs vs the all-perils $2,500 deductible — significant for FL homeowners.
❓ Frequently asked questions
Which states have hurricane deductibles?
19 states + DC: Alabama, Connecticut, Delaware, DC, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Texas, Virginia. Outside these states, even Atlantic-facing properties typically use only standard all-perils deductibles. Florida is most prevalent — nearly every FL homeowner policy has hurricane deductible.
How is the 'trigger' defined?
Varies by state and insurer. Common triggers: (1) NWS names a storm AND wind reaches your state — most common; (2) NWS issues hurricane WARNING for your county; (3) Hurricane makes LANDFALL within X miles of your property. Tropical storms (named, below hurricane strength 74mph) generally also trigger named-storm deductibles in policies that use that broader language. Read your policy declarations page — varies significantly.
Can I buy down the hurricane deductible?
Yes, but expect premium increase of 10-30%. Most FL insurers offer 2%, 5%, or 10% options — choosing 2% over 10% can DOUBLE your annual premium. Math test: if your premium delta is $1,500/yr to go from 5% to 2%, and you have a 1-in-15-year claim, the premium difference exceeds the savings on a single claim. For most homeowners 5% balances cost and protection. Coastal/barrier island residents may have NO choice below 10%.
Does flood damage from a hurricane fall under this?
NO. Hurricane deductible applies to WIND damage (and wind-driven rain entering through wind-damaged openings). Flood damage from storm surge or rising water requires a separate FLOOD POLICY (NFIP through your homeowners agent, or private flood like Neptune/Wright). Average NFIP policy: $850/yr, deductible $1,250. Many Floridians find AFTER a hurricane that they're underinsured because flood was excluded.
What if my insurer drops me after a claim?
Most states allow non-renewal but require advance notice (30-90 days typical) and prohibit mid-policy cancellation absent fraud. Florida specifically: after Hurricane Ian (2022) and Helena (2024), many private carriers exited. Last-resort: state-mandated FAIR Plan (TX FAIR, Citizens Property Insurance in FL, NC Underwriting Association). FAIR plans cover fewer perils, higher deductibles, similar or higher premiums than private market — but always available.
📚 Sources & references
Last updated: May 23, 2026