Wind, hail, and hurricane deductibles explained.

Look for separate hazard deductibles

A homeowners policy may have one deductible for most losses and separate deductibles for wind, hail, named storm, hurricane, or earthquake. These may be flat dollar amounts or percentages of dwelling coverage.

Review triggers

Ask what triggers each deductible. A named-storm deductible may apply differently than a hurricane deductible. Hail and wind deductibles may apply even when the loss is not a declared hurricane.

What to compare

• Last year's hazard deductible and this year's hazard deductible.
• Whether the deductible is a percentage of Coverage A.
• Roof settlement terms for wind or hail.
• Whether mitigation discounts changed.

Sources

Louisiana DOI publishes homeowners and hurricane resources, and South Carolina DOI encourages consumers to compare coverage and quality along with premium. Review Louisiana DOI homeowners insurance and South Carolina DOI homeowners insurance.