A deductible that is a percentage
Most claims on a home policy have a flat deductible, such as $1,000 or $2,500. Hurricane damage is different. It has its own deductible, usually 2%, 5% or 10% of your home's insured value.
On a home insured for $350,000, a 2% deductible means you pay the first $7,000 of hurricane damage. At 5% it is $17,500. The percentage you choose has a real effect on both your premium and what you would owe after a storm.
It applies once a year
The hurricane deductible applies once per calendar year, as long as you stay with the same insurer. If two hurricanes damage your home in one season, you do not pay the full deductible twice.
How a wind mitigation inspection helps
A wind mitigation inspection records the features that help your home resist wind. Insurers must give premium credits for them, and the report is valid for five years.
- Roof-to-wall connections such as clips and straps
- Roof shape and how the roof deck is attached
- A secondary water barrier under the roof covering
- Shutters or impact-rated windows and doors
Roof age and inspections
An insurer cannot refuse your home only because the roof is less than 15 years old. For a roof of 15 years or more you have the right to an inspection, and if it shows at least five years of useful life the insurer cannot refuse solely because of age.
Homes more than about 20 years old often need a four-point inspection as well, covering the roof, electrical, plumbing and air conditioning.
Do not wait for a storm
Citizens and most private insurers stop writing new policies and changes once a tropical storm or hurricane watch or warning covers any part of Florida. Review your deductible and coverage before the season, not during it.
This article is general information, not advice about your policy. Coverage, eligibility and prices depend on the insurer and your circumstances. Written by A&D Insurance Services and published October 5, 2026.
