Season runs June 1 to November 30. Beyond the forecasts, the things that actually affect a claim are your policy details — and they're best checked before a storm, not after.
The Atlantic hurricane season runs June 1 through November 30. Seasonal outlooks from NOAA and university groups get the headlines, but a forecast doesn’t change what your policy pays. The variables that decide a claim are in your documents — and the time to read them is before a named storm is on the cone, not after.
What actually affects your claim
- Your hurricane deductible. Many coastal policies carry a percentage deductible — often 2% to 5% of the dwelling limit — that applies to named-storm or windstorm losses. On a $400,000 home, a 2% deductible is $8,000 out of pocket before the carrier pays a dollar. Check yours; it’s usually far more than a flat deductible. Run the numbers with the deductible calculator.
- Flood is separate. Homeowner policies generally exclude flood and storm surge. Those sit with the NFIP or a private flood policy, and new flood policies typically have a 30-day waiting period — buying as a storm approaches usually won’t cover that storm. See flood coverage and storm surge.
- Wind vs. water. After a storm, disputes often split along wind (covered) vs. flood (separate policy) lines. Understanding storm surge vs. flood denials ahead of time helps.
A pre-season checklist
- Read your declarations page — limits, deductibles, and any windstorm or roof endorsements.
- Confirm whether you have flood coverage and when it takes effect.
- Photograph your property now, while it’s undamaged, using the photo method. Pre-loss photos are strong evidence later.
- Know your carrier’s claim-reporting steps before you need them.
During and after a storm
Prioritize safety, then document, then mitigate. The claims hub and the before-the-storm and after-the-storm guides walk through the sequence.
Coverage terms vary widely between policies and states, and this is general information rather than advice about your specific policy. Read your own declarations page and endorsements, and confirm anything you’re unsure of with a licensed agent or adjuster.
General information, not legal advice — laws and policies vary and change. Confirm current statutes and your own dates with a licensed attorney before acting.