When hurricanes come through Florida, they can cause substantial damage. It is because of this that it is important to understand what your insurance covers in the event that you suffer significant damages. The law in Florida requires property insurance policies to include coverage for damages caused by wind during a storm declared to be a hurricane by the National Hurricane Center. Continue reading below to learn more and contact an experienced Florida hurricane insurance claims attorney for assistance.

What is Windstorm Coverage?

The coverage that exists is for loss or damage caused by a windstorm during a hurricane. This includes damage to the interior of a building, or to property inside a building. This can be caused by rain, snow, sleet, hail, sand, or dust if the force of the windstorm damages the building, causing it to make an opening, enter and cause damage. The term “windstorm” refers to wind, wind gusts, hail, rain, tornadoes, or cyclones caused by a hurricane that results in the direct physical loss or damage to a property. 

What are the Hurricane Windstorm Insurance Coverage Requirements?

By law in Florida, insurers who are issuing residential property insurance policies are required to include hurricane windstorm coverage in their policies. Residential policies can include both personal lines and commercial lines. Personal lines can include coverage provided by homeowners, mobile homeowners, dwelling, tenants, condominium unit owners, cooperative unit owners, and similar policies. Commercial lines can include coverage provided by condominium association, cooperative association, apartment building, and similar policies. 

What is the Florida Hurricane Loss Mitigation Program?

The Hurricane Loss Mitigation Program (HLMP) was created by Florida’s Division of Emergency Management. It provides grants to help reduce wind damage to homes proactively. The annual budget provided is $7 million by the Florida Hurricane Catastrophe Trust Fund. This provides:

  • Retrofitting homes to better withstand wind damage
  • Promotion of wind damage education
  • Sponsorship of hurricane research activities

Contact our Firm

To discuss your case with our experienced Panama City hurricane claims attorneys, contact Manuel & Thompson, P.A. today for your free consultation.