Hurricane season is always a reminder that preparation matters—but knowing what to do after a storm is just as important as stocking up beforehand. In this month’s video, our CEO, Jake Holehouse, walks through the essentials of filing a claim, understanding your coverage, and avoiding the most common post-storm mistakes.
Below, we’ve expanded on a few of those points with additional context and practical tips to help you feel more confident should you ever face storm damage.
Why Preparation Matters Before the Claims Process
The hours and days after a hurricane can feel overwhelming. Power may be out, phone lines jammed, and contractors scarce. Taking small steps now means fewer worries later:
- Keep Your Policy Handy – Save your Declarations page in a cloud folder or as a screenshot on your phone so you can quickly reference coverage, limits, and deductibles.
- Download Your Carrier’s Mobile App – Most insurers’ apps let you file claims, upload photos, and track progress—all without waiting on hold.
- Save Important Contacts – Having your carrier’s claims number stored in your phone means you won’t be scrambling when call volumes surge. HH Insurance is always here to support and guide you, but your carrier is the one who officially begins the claim process.
- Create a Home Inventory – A record of your belongings makes filing a claim smoother and more accurate. Apps like Sortly, Find My Stuff: Home Inventory, or even a simple video or photo log can store room-by-room details of furniture, appliances, and valuables. Updating it once a year can save you countless headaches after a storm.
The Wind vs. Flood Puzzle
One of the most confusing parts of hurricane recovery is understanding which damage is covered under which policy. Here’s a simple way to remember:
- If the water came from above (like rain through a damaged roof), it’s usually a homeowners insurance claim.
- If the water came from below (rising floodwaters entering your home), it requires a flood insurance policy.
Pro tip: Don’t wait until a storm hits to check whether you have flood coverage. Many Floridians discover too late that they don’t.
Your Hurricane Deductible: Don’t Be Caught Off Guard
Florida policies come with a separate hurricane deductible, usually between 2–5% of your home’s insured value. That can add up quickly. Too often, homeowners only learn their deductible amount after damage occurs. Checking now will prevent unwelcome surprises later.
Smart Steps Immediately After the Storm
Even if your home looks okay, here are a few steps that will make life easier if you need to file a claim:
- Photograph Everything – Before you clean up, take photos and videos from multiple angles.
- Call the Carrier, Then Us – Starting the claim with your insurer first will get the wheels turning faster. Once you’ve filed, our team is here to answer questions, help you stay organized, and guide you through next steps.
- Use Trusted Vendors – Your insurance carrier can connect you with vetted restoration companies. Avoid contractors who knock on your door offering quick fixes.
- Stay Organized – Keep notes, receipts, and all claim-related paperwork in one place. It’ll save you from headaches later.
We’re Here to Help
Our hope, always, is that you never need to use your insurance. But if you do, we want you to feel empowered, not overwhelmed. Watch Jake’s video above for a quick walkthrough and remember—you don’t have to navigate this alone.
HH Insurance is here to guide you through the process and make sure you feel supported every step of the way.
**This blog provides a brief overview of the terms and phrases used within the insurance industry. These definitions are not applicable in all states or for all insurance and financial products. This is not an insurance contract. Other terms, conditions and exclusions apply. Please read your official policy for full details about coverage. These definitions do not alter or modify the terms of any insurance contract.