Louisiana Windstorm Insurance: Everything You Need Before the Next Storm

Louisiana is known for its winding rivers and scenic Gulf coastline, where deep historical roots and cultural influences shape daily life. But even in a state so vibrant, its weather can be unpredictable and destructive. That is why, with an ever-present threat of hurricanes and windstorms, it’s critical to understand the importance of windstorm insurance. 

But what is windstorm insurance, exactly? And why is it so important for Louisiana homeowners?

The Importance of Windstorm Insurance in Louisiana

Whether you’re a longtime local or new in town, Louisiana residents are all aware of the brute force of the hurricanes that pass through their state. Louisiana’s location along the coast exposes the state to more potentially catastrophic tropical storms and hurricanes. It’s more than just rain and flooding – these storms’ winds can reach speeds of over 150 mph in the most extreme cases. Winds at this speed uproot trees, rip off roofs, and can even flatten houses.

The standard homeowner’s policy’s wind damage coverage usually isn’t enough – in some cases, it’s completely excluded. That’s where windstorm insurance comes in. This specific type of coverage protects your home and belongings from damage caused by high winds, making it a crucial option for homeowners in Louisiana.

What is Covered by Windstorm Insurance?

Windstorm insurance typically covers damages caused by high winds during a hurricane, tropical storm, or tornado. These damages can include structural damage to your home, such as shattered windows or high winds that rip off a roof. Additionally, it can also cover damages to personal belongings resulting from wind-driven rain that enters through compromised parts of the home.

But no two policies are alike, and coverage can vary greatly depending on different factors, such as your location and insurer. In some areas farther from the Louisiana coast, a homeowner’s policy includes damages caused by wind. However, in more coastal areas of the state, windstorm insurance requires a separate policy. It’s important for Louisiana homeowners to ensure they understand the extent of their coverage.

What is Not Covered by Windstorm Insurance?

Windstorm insurance policies do not cover flooding caused by storm surges or heavy rains. To ensure complete storm protection, homeowners need a separate flood insurance policy. This commonly causes confusion with homeowners, especially following a hurricane where both wind and water damage can occur.

In addition, windstorm policies do not cover damages to your vehicle caused by storm surges or heavy rains. A comprehensive auto policy covers these types of damages.

Is It Really Necessary?

If you’ve never experienced a hurricane before, you might be asking yourself this question. Many homeowners aren’t sure whether or not windstorm insurance is really necessary. The answer is simple: yes. Louisiana’s coastal location makes it more prone to hurricanes, and a single devastating storm can disrupt everything. Taking into account that Louisiana has experienced some of history’s most destructive storms, it’s not a risk worth taking.

Without windstorm coverage, homeowners have to pay out of pocket for damages – and those costs can add up fast. Roof repairs alone can cost tens of thousands of dollars, not including the additional expenses for damages such as shattered windows, or in severe cases, the entire home. Having windstorm insurance provides you with a financial safety net, so you can go through hurricane season with peace of mind.

The Cost of Windstorm Insurance in Louisiana

One of the most common questions is cost, but the answer isn’t always straightforward. The cost of windstorm insurance varies depending on several factors:

• Location: For homeowners closer to Louisiana’s coast, insurance premiums are more likely to be higher. This is due to the fact that coastal areas tend to take the brunt of a storm, causing insurers to see them as higher risk. 
• Construction of Home: Homes built with hurricane resistance in mind withstand the force of these storms than homes built without it. Fortified features such as hurricane shutters and a reinforced roof can lower your premium.
• Deductibles: Windstorm insurance usually includes a separate deductible, typically calculated as a percentage of your home’s insured value. For example, on a $200,000 home with a 5% deductible, you’d pay $10,000 out of pocket before insurance coverage kicks in.

Saving Money on Windstorm Insurance

You can lower the cost of your windstorm insurance a number of ways: 

1. Mitigation Efforts: Installing more storm-resistant features in your home can qualify you for discounts. Many insurance companies offer discounts for things like installing hurricane shutters or upgrading to impact-resistant windows.
2. Increased Deductible: You can reduce your monthly premium by choosing a higher deductible. However, be sure you can afford to pay the out-of-pocket cost if you ever need to file a claim.
3. Bundle Your Policies: Some insurance companies offer discounts to customers that bundle their windstorm policy with other types of coverage, such as homeowners or auto.
4. Remove Hazards: Clearing hazards that could pose a structural threat, such as large trees, could qualify you for discounts with some insurance companies.

The Louisiana Fortify Homes Program (LFHP)

Louisiana homeowners can save on premiums and reinforce their roofs against storms by applying for the Louisiana Fortify Homes Program (LFHP) grant. Through this program, homeowners can receive a grant up to $10,000 to upgrade their home’s roof to meet standards set by the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety (IBHS). After completing the process, homeowners receive a certificate that they can present to insurance companies to receive discounts on premiums. It’s a smart way to enhance protection and save on insurance at the same time.

Choosing the Right Windstorm Insurance Policy

It can be overwhelming when trying to pick the right windstorm insurance policy that fits your needs. So how do you decide what’s right for you?

• Assess Your Risk: Consider the severity and frequency of storms in your area. If you’re located in a coastal or more hurricane-prone region, you’ll want to opt for more robust coverage.
• Shop Around: The first quote you get might not be your best option. Get multiple quotes from different carriers and compare them. Each insurance company assesses risk differently, so prices vary greatly.
• Understand Deductibles: Ensure your deductible fits your budget. A higher deductible means lower premiums, but also results in a higher out-of-pocket cost in the case of a claim.
• Look for Discounts: Ask insurers about discount options. Storm-proofing your home could qualify you for discounts that help lower your premium.

Get Started With Louisiana Windstorm Insurance

In Louisiana, the threat of hurricanes and severe storms is a part of everyday life. While you don’t have control over the weather, you do have control over how well protected your home is. A windstorm insurance policy ensures that you’re not left with a massive repair bill when the next storm rolls in. Ultimately, investing in windstorm insurance means investing in the safety and security of your home – and that peace of mind is priceless.

At TGS Insurance, we specialize in helping Louisiana homeowners secure the right windstorm coverage to protect their home before the next big storm hits. Our experienced agents are committed to protecting your home at a cost that fits your budget, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful state of Louisiana with peace of mind.