Hurricane Milton: What Homeowners Need to Know About Water Damage and Roof Leaks

Hurricane Milton made landfall as a devastating Category 3 storm, and the impact is being felt across the Gulf Coast. With winds reaching up to 120 mph, this hurricane has left many homes in Florida and surrounding states severely damaged. As homeowners begin to assess the destruction, one of the biggest questions arises: Does homeowners insurance cover water damage and roof leaks caused by storms like Hurricane Milton?

Wide destruction after Hurricane Milton pounds Florida

The Impact of Hurricane Milton on Homes

As Hurricane Milton swept across Florida, it caused widespread damage to homes, businesses, and infrastructure. The storm is expected to result in an estimated $175 billion in damages, leaving many residents struggling with destroyed roofs, flooded basements, and structural damage. This comes on the heels of Hurricane Helene, which further weakened the state’s infrastructure, leaving many communities unprepared for Milton’s arrival. While some homes were evacuated, others are left with extensive water damage that could take weeks or even months to repair.

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Water Damage and Roof Leaks?

When dealing with the aftermath of Hurricane Milton, homeowners may wonder if their insurance policy covers the damage. According to Margaret Heidenry, writing for Realtor.com, a standard homeowners insurance policy typically covers water damage and roof leaks if they are caused by a sudden and unexpected event like a windstorm. For example, if Hurricane Milton caused a tree to fall through your roof, or heavy winds created an opening that led to water intrusion, your insurance would likely cover the repairs. However, if the damage is the result of a pre-existing condition, such as a hole in the roof that wasn’t repaired, your claim could be denied.

It’s essential to remember that flooding caused by hurricanes is generally not covered under a standard homeowners insurance policy. If your home is flooded due to Hurricane Milton, you’ll need a separate flood insurance policy to cover the damage. As noted in Heidenry’s article, flood insurance can be costly, and the premiums are based on factors like your home’s location and its contents’ value.

Does Your Home Need Flood Insurance? — Canva image

When Insurance Won’t Cover the Damage

One key point that homeowners need to understand is that not all water damage will be covered by their insurance policy. If the damage is due to neglect or poor maintenance, your claim could be denied. For instance, if your gutters were clogged and water seeped into your home’s foundation, causing water damage, this type of issue is considered preventable and may not be covered. Similarly, damage caused by faulty roofing materials or improper installation is also typically excluded from coverage.

Protecting Your Home from Future Hurricanes

Hurricane Milton serves as a harsh reminder of the importance of preparing your home for future storms. Regular roof inspections, cleaning out gutters, and maintaining your property can help prevent small problems from turning into costly repairs. As noted by Thomas J. Simeone in the same article, nearly 27% of homeowners mistakenly believe that their insurance will cover damages caused by normal wear and tear. Staying proactive with home maintenance is crucial for avoiding out-of-pocket costs when storms like Hurricane Milton hit.

Hurricane Milton has left a path of destruction in its wake, and many homeowners are now faced with the challenge of repairing water damage and roof leaks. While insurance can help cover some of the costs, it’s essential to know what your policy includes and what it doesn’t. As Margaret Heidenry of Realtor.com explains, understanding the details of your insurance policy can save you from unexpected financial burdens. As we continue to navigate a highly active hurricane season, staying prepared and protecting your home can make all the difference.