As storm-related weather events become more frequent across the Gulf Coast, property owners in Southeast Louisiana are facing growing concerns over what is and isn’t covered by existing homeowners insurance policies. ADDvantage Insurance, located in Houma, Louisiana, is providing guidance on the necessary steps to take when storm damage occurs and is not covered under a standard policy.
Many property owners assume that storm damage is fully covered under a traditional home insurance policy. However, exclusions are common, especially for events related to flooding, wind, and named storms. Failure to address these gaps ahead of time often leads to costly surprises after a storm hits.
Eric Yeates, owner of ADDvantage Insurance, emphasized the importance of understanding policy language before storm season begins.
“One of the most common issues seen after a storm is confusion about coverage limitations,” said Yeates. “When damage happens and the policy excludes it, the focus has to shift from prevention to strategic response.”
The first step after discovering storm damage that is not covered by an existing policy is documentation. Clear, dated photographs and videos of the damage—both exterior and interior—are necessary for any appeals process or potential disaster relief applications. Documentation should also include receipts, inspection reports, and any maintenance records that can support the claim or show the condition of the property prior to the storm.
The next step involves carefully reviewing the policy. Homeowners insurance documents can be complex, with coverage and exclusions often buried in endorsements and amendments. Some policies may exclude wind-driven rain, flooding caused by surface water, or structural damage from deteriorated roofing. Understanding the specific clauses and exclusions in the current policy can clarify why a claim may be denied and whether additional steps can be taken.
If a denial is received, policyholders can request a second opinion or independent assessment. A licensed public adjuster or contractor with storm damage experience can provide a professional damage report. These independent evaluations can serve as evidence for appeal, particularly in cases where the insurer’s findings appear incomplete or incorrect.
Additional insurance options may also exist outside of a traditional policy. Flood insurance, for example, is not included in standard homeowners policies and must be purchased separately through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or a private carrier. Windstorm coverage may be included as an endorsement or provided through a separate policy in designated high-risk areas.
In some cases, government assistance may be available for damages that fall outside insurance coverage. State or federal disaster declarations open access to aid programs such as grants, low-interest loans, and temporary housing support. To access these programs, documentation of denied insurance claims, repair estimates, and financial need must be submitted. These resources do not replace insurance but may help offset losses caused by uncovered damage.
Another key consideration is how deductibles are applied in the event of storm damage. Named storm or hurricane deductibles are typically calculated as a percentage of the home’s insured value, rather than a flat rate. These can result in significantly higher out-of-pocket costs for property owners, especially those unaware of how their deductible is structured. Reviewing this section of the policy before hurricane season can prevent financial strain during recovery.
Yeates also noted the importance of understanding how claims are valued. Policies based on Actual Cash Value (ACV) take depreciation into account, while policies written on a Replacement Cost Value (RCV) basis reimburse the cost to repair or replace with similar materials, without deducting for age or wear. This difference impacts payout amounts and influences how repairs are funded.
When storm damage is not covered, and the denial is upheld after review, steps can be taken to avoid future exposure. These include exploring supplemental policies, adjusting coverage amounts, and adding endorsements to account for changing risk levels. Annual policy reviews, particularly before peak storm season, can help ensure adequate protection and reduce the chances of claim denial in the future.
In coastal Louisiana, the insurance landscape continues to shift in response to increased weather-related claims, insurer withdrawals, and rising reinsurance costs. Property owners are encouraged to stay informed about these trends and work closely with licensed agents to monitor policy changes and potential coverage gaps.
ADDvantage Insurance works with clients throughout the Houma area and across South Louisiana to address risk exposure related to storm events. The agency’s focus includes identifying high-risk properties, comparing available coverage options, and responding to claim-related issues with practical steps that reduce financial impact and accelerate recovery.
