Atlantic hurricane season officially runs from June 1 through November 30. As it winds down, many Georgia homeowners breathe a sigh of relief and stop thinking about storms until next summer. That is understandable, but the off-season is actually the best time to look at your coverage, while you are not racing a storm forecast.
Georgia knows how far inland a hurricane can reach. When Hurricane Helene moved through in late September 2024, it brought destructive winds and flooding well beyond the coast, including serious damage and long power outages in the Augusta area. Savannah and the coastal islands face storm surge, while Macon, Columbus and metro Atlanta face high winds, falling trees and flash flooding. Here is a seasonal review to work through this winter.
1. Look back at this season
- Did any storm or heavy rain cause damage you have not reported? Many policies require prompt notice, so do not wait.
- Did you lose power for days? Make a note of what failed: food, sump pumps, medical equipment. That tells you what to plan for next time.
- Did trees on your property lose limbs or start leaning? Get them looked at before next season.
2. Find your hurricane or wind deductible
Some Georgia homeowners policies, especially near the coast, have a separate deductible for named storms or wind and hail. It may be a percentage of your dwelling limit rather than a flat dollar amount, which can make it much larger than your regular deductible. Look at your declarations page and do the math so you know what you would pay out of pocket.
3. Separate wind damage from flood damage
Standard homeowners policies generally cover wind damage, subject to the deductible, but exclude flooding, including storm surge and rising water from rivers and creeks. Flood insurance is a separate policy available through FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program and from some private insurers. NFIP policies usually have a 30-day waiting period before coverage begins, with some exceptions. The off-season is the time to buy, not when a storm is in the forecast. FloodSmart.gov explains the details.
4. Check your dwelling limit
After a widespread storm, demand for roofers, builders and materials can spike. Make sure your dwelling coverage reflects today’s cost to rebuild your home, and ask whether extended or guaranteed replacement cost options are available on your policy.
5. Review additional living expenses
If a storm makes your home unlivable, additional living expense coverage can help with temporary housing and other added costs, within its limits. Know how much you have and how long it lasts.
6. Update your home inventory
Walk through each room with your phone and record video. Open closets and drawers. Save receipts for big purchases. Store everything in the cloud so it survives if the house does not.
7. Prepare the house for next season
- Inspect the roof and fix loose shingles or flashing.
- Clean gutters and make sure downspouts carry water away from the foundation.
- Trim trees and remove dead limbs.
- Consider storm shutters, impact-rated windows or garage door bracing. Ask your agent whether any mitigation features matter to your insurer.
Ready.gov has a full hurricane preparedness checklist, and the Georgia Office of Commissioner of Insurance and Safety Fire offers consumer help with homeowners claims and questions.
Schedule your off-season review
Peak Insurance is licensed in Georgia and works with 60+ carriers, including flood insurance options. We can walk through your deductibles, flood coverage and rebuild limits before next season. Visit our Georgia insurance page or our home insurance page, call (855) 449-8552, or contact us.
