What Louisiana Homeowners Insurance Covers (and Doesn’t Cover) for Hurricane Damage

Quick Summary: In Louisiana, standard homeowners insurance covers wind-related hurricane damage —but does NOT cover flooding from storm surge, rising water, or levee overflow. Most policies also include a separate hurricane or windstorm deductible that applies only during named storms. To be fully protected, homeowners need both a homeowners policy and a separate flood insurance policy.

What Homeowners Insurance Typically Covers During a Hurricane

At State Insurance Services in Gonzales, we help homeowners throughout Ascension Parish, Prairieville, Baton Rouge, Metairie, New Orleans, and surrounding areas understand exactly how their coverage works when hurricane season arrives.

In most cases, a Louisiana homeowners insurance policy covers:

• Wind damage to your roof, siding, windows, and exterior structures
• Wind-driven rain that enters your home after wind causes an opening
• Fallen trees that damage your house or other covered structures
• Additional living expenses(ALE) if you must temporarily relocate due to covered damage
• Damage to personal belongings caused by wind

This is the foundation of most hurricane-related coverage—but the key details below often surprise homeowners.

What Homeowners Insurance Does Not Cover

1. Flooding and Storm Surge

Any water that rises from the ground up is considered flood damage —and not covered under a standard homeowners policy.

This includes:

• Storm surge
• Rising water from heavy rain
• Levee breaches or overflow
• Water entering your home at ground level

To protect your home from these risks, you’ll need a separate flood insurance policy through the NFIP or a private carrier. Our team can help you compare options and make sure you’re compliant with local coverage requirements.

2. Damage Caused by Poor Maintenance

If your roof or home exterior was already compromised, insurance may not cover damage that could have been prevented with proper upkeep.

3. Water Seepage Not Related to Wind Damage

If rain enters through aging seals, cracks, or other maintenance issues, that damage is typically excluded.

Understanding Louisiana Hurricane & Windstorm Deductibles

Unlike regular homeowners claims, hurricane damage often triggers a named-storm or windstorm deductible. This deductible is usually listed as a percentage (often 1–5%) of your home’s insured value.

For example:

If your home is insured for $300,000 and you have a 3% hurricane deductible, you’ll pay $9,000 out of pocket before insurance begins to cover the loss.

It’s important to know your exact deductible and how it applies—especially if you live in coastal or high-risk regions around Gonzales, Prairieville, Baton Rouge, Metairie, or New Orleans.

Storm Preparation Coverage Considerations

Hurricanes affect more than just your home. Louisiana residents with boats, jet skis, or other watercraft should review their Boat & Marine Insurance to confirm coverage while vessels are stored or trailered during a storm.

To understand your full home protections, visit our Homeowners Insurance page for more details about available coverage options.

Be Prepared Before Storm Season Hits

Hurricane season arrives every year—but the time to review your coverage is before a storm forms in the Gulf. At State Insurance Services, we help Louisiana families make sure they have the right protection in place for both wind and flood risks.

Contact us today to review your policies and make sure your home is fully protected before storm season begins.