OCALA, FL (352today.com) — With hurricane season right around the corner, many Florida homeowners and drivers – especially newcomers – are taking a closer look at their insurance policies. Angie Lewis, a State Farm agent based in Ocala, says understanding what’s covered and what’s not is crucial before the first storm hits.

One of the biggest misconceptions among policyholders, Lewis explained, involves flood coverage.

“Flood damage, even from a named hurricane, is not covered under a standard homeowner’s policy,” Lewis said. “Sudden, rushing water can be covered in certain cases, but rising, flood water is not covered under a homeowner’s policy.”

Sandbags in front of a business in Cedar Key on Aug. 4, 2024. Courtesy: Ben Baugh/352today

Even homeowners who don’t live near lakes or rivers shouldn’t assume they’re safe from flooding.

“Flooding can happen anywhere,” Lewis emphasized. “Urban areas, for example, can experience flash floods due to overwhelmed drainage systems. It would be wise to consider historical data and consult an insurance professional when considering your risk.”

When it comes to hurricane damage, Lewis urges homeowners to understand policy limitations before the season starts.

Flooding on SW 27th Ave. in Ocala, highlighting the city's vulnerability to severe weather events and the need for a comprehensive flood risk assessment and mitigation planning.
Flooding on SW 27th Ave. in Ocala, highlighting the city’s vulnerability to severe weather events. Courtesy: Chris Adkins/352today

“You cannot increase your coverage right before a storm, as most insurance companies have restrictions set to prohibit this,” she said. “Damage due to negligence or improper maintenance is not covered, and homeowners should also be aware of their annual hurricane deductible, in addition to their standard policy deductible.”

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Another overlooked area is additional living expenses.

“Homeowners should check their additional living expense coverage in case their home becomes uninhabitable after a storm,” Lewis advised.

For drivers, comprehensive auto coverage is another important layer of protection during hurricane season.

“Comprehensive coverage is important during a hurricane as it covers floodwater, fallen trees, or flying debris,” Lewis said. “It is typically very inexpensive to add, but it cannot be added right before a storm is expected to hit. State Farm proudly offers a zero dollar comprehensive deductible.”

Lewis encourages her policyholders to be proactive long before a hurricane is on the horizon.

“We advise our customers to review their policies so they fully understand their coverage,” she said. “We suggest proactive steps like boarding up windows and placing sandbags around doors and windows to help mitigate damage.”

A neighborhood is flooded off Paradise Point after Hurricane Debby passed through Crystal River, FL on Monday, August 5, 2024. Courtesy: Alan Youngblood/352today

In Marion County, Lewis warns that risks extend beyond wind and rain.

“Marion County residents should be aware of sinkholes,” she said. “Every homeowner and renter policy in Florida includes catastrophic ground cover collapse coverage, but a sinkhole endorsement is needed to cover damages caused by the formation of sinkholes.”

If there’s one message Lewis hopes Floridians take to heart before the season begins, it’s this: be prepared.

“Comprehensive coverage and proactive planning are crucial to ensuring you are properly prepared for a storm,” Lewis said. “Maintaining an inventory of your personal property, along with photos of your home and car’s condition before a storm, can make it much easier to substantiate a claim if needed.”

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