Do I need to report minor hurricane damage to my insurer?

Yes, it's always wise to document and report any damage, no matter how minor. Small issues like a few missing shingles can lead to larger problems like water damage later. Reporting it creates a record and allows your insurer to advise on the best course of action, which could be critical if more damage is found later.

Is flood damage covered under a standard NC homeowners policy?

Typically, no. Standard homeowners insurance policies do not cover damage from flooding. This requires a separate policy through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or a private insurer. It's a crucial distinction, especially for those in low-lying areas or near the coast.

How can I lower my home insurance premiums before winter?

A great way to potentially lower your premiums is by bundling your home and auto policies. You can also increase your deductible, but be sure it's an amount you can comfortably afford out-of-pocket. Finally, ask your agent about discounts for home security systems, smoke detectors, or recent roof updates.

NC Homeowners: Hurricane Season's Almost Done! 3 Smart Insurance Steps Before Winter Arrives

As the air gets crisper here in North Carolina, we can all breathe a collective sigh of relief. The end of hurricane season is in sight! For many NC homeowners, hurricane season insurance reviews are top of mind right now, and for good reason. While the threat of major storms subsides, the transition to winter brings its own set of challenges. Now is the perfect time—before you're thinking about frozen pipes or holiday plans—to take a few simple, proactive steps with your home insurance. It’s about securing peace of mind for the rest of the year.

1. Document Everything: Your Post-Hurricane Property Review 📝

Even if your home in Raleigh or down on the Outer Banks wasn't in the direct path of a storm, high winds and heavy rain can cause subtle damage you might not notice right away. Before the memory of the season fades, grab your phone and do a thorough walk-around of your property. This is a critical first step in your post-hurricane home checklist.

A homeowner inspecting their roof for missing shingles after a storm. — Checking your roof for missing or curled shingles is a non-negotiable step.

Look specifically for:

Roofing: Missing, cracked, or curled shingles.
Gutters & Siding: Dents, cracks, or loose sections.
Windows & Doors: Cracked panes or damaged seals.
Fences & Sheds: Leaning posts, loose panels, or other damage.

Take clear photos and videos of everything, even if it seems minor. This documentation is invaluable if you need to file a claim later. It establishes a baseline of your property's condition right after storm season.

2. Conduct a Proactive Insurance Policy Check-up 💡

Your insurance policy shouldn't be a "set it and forget it" document. The end of hurricane season is the ideal time for a North Carolina insurance review to ensure you’re adequately protected for the year ahead. What was sufficient last year might not be enough today, especially with rising construction costs.

Here are key things to review with an agent:

Deductibles: Understand your hurricane or windstorm deductible. Is it a flat rate or a percentage? Knowing this number prevents surprises.
Coverage Limits: Does your dwelling coverage still reflect the cost to rebuild your home in today's market?
Flood Insurance: Remember, standard home insurance does not cover flooding. If you don't have a separate policy, now is the time to consider one. For official state resources, the North Carolina Department of Insurance is an excellent place to find information.

3. Prepare for Winter's Unique Risks ❄️

With hurricane season in the rearview mirror, it's time to shift your focus to winter home insurance prep. The risks change from wind and rain to ice, snow, and freezing temperatures, which can be just as damaging, especially for our neighbors up in the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Insulated pipes in a crawl space, a key step for winter home preparation. — Insulating pipes is a small investment that can prevent a catastrophic claim.

A few preventative measures now can save you a major headache later:

Insulate pipes in your crawlspace or attic.
Have your HVAC system serviced to ensure it's ready for cold weather.
Clean your gutters of leaves and debris to prevent ice dams.
Trim any tree branches overhanging your home that could break under the weight of ice or snow.

Taking these steps not only protects your property but can also demonstrate to your insurer that you are a responsible homeowner, which is always a positive. From our agency here in Elkin, we've seen firsthand how a little preparation goes a long way in protecting what matters most.