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Wind vs. Flood Damage in a Hurricane: Who Covers What?

Last updated October 25, 2026

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The short answer

How Wind Damage Is Covered

Wind damage from a hurricane, such as torn shingles, broken windows, or a fallen tree on your roof, is usually covered by standard homeowners or commercial property insurance. This includes damage from wind-driven rain that enters through a broken window or damaged roof. Your policy likely lists wind as a covered peril, but deductibles for hurricane wind can be higher than for other claims.

If a hurricane causes wind to tear off part of your roof and rain soaks your attic, that water damage is typically treated as wind damage because the water entered through the wind-created opening. Document the damage with photos and notes before you clean up. Keep receipts for any temporary repairs you make, like tarping the roof, as those may be reimbursable under your policy.

Flood Damage Needs Separate Coverage

Flood damage is a different category. Standard homeowners and commercial policies usually exclude flooding, which includes water that rises from outside, such as storm surge, overflowing rivers, or heavy rain that pools on the ground. To be covered for flood, you need a separate flood insurance policy, often through the National Flood Insurance Program or a private insurer. Policies vary, and your insurer decides what is covered.

If your home or business is in a flood zone, flood insurance may be required by your lender, but even outside high-risk areas, flooding can happen. Check your policy to see if flood coverage is included or if you need to buy it separately. If floodwater enters your building, the damage is considered flood damage, even if wind also played a role.

Mixed Wind and Water Damage

In a hurricane, the line between wind and flood damage can blur. For example, if storm surge floods your first floor while wind damages the roof, you may have both types of damage. Your insurance company will assess the cause of each part of the damage. You may need to file claims with both your property insurer and your flood insurer.

To make the process smoother, document everything carefully. Take photos and videos of each damaged area, noting whether the damage appears to be from wind (like a broken window) or water (like flood lines on walls). Keep a detailed list of damaged items. If your insurer disputes the cause, you can ask for a second opinion or consult a public adjuster or attorney.

  • Take photos of wind damage like torn shingles or broken windows
  • Photograph flood lines, mud, or standing water as evidence
  • List every damaged item with its approximate value
  • Keep receipts for temporary repairs like tarp or plywood
  • Note the date and time of each photo or note
  • Do not throw away damaged items until your adjuster sees them

What to Do Right After a Hurricane

Your safety comes first. Stay away from downed power lines and do not enter a building if you smell gas or see structural damage. If you feel unwell, see a doctor. Once it is safe, start documenting the damage and make temporary repairs to prevent further harm, like covering broken windows or tarping a damaged roof.

Act quickly to begin drying out your property. Standing water can worsen damage and lead to mold growth within days. If you have flood insurance, contact your insurer as soon as possible to start the claims process. For cleanup, you may need to hire local water damage pros for flood damage cleanup, especially if the water rose high or sat for long.

When to Bring in Professionals

After a hurricane, the scale of damage can be overwhelming. If you have significant water intrusion, especially from flooding, professional help may be necessary. Local water damage pros can help with structural drying, removing soaked drywall, and sanitizing affected areas. They can also assess the extent of damage and provide documentation for your claim.

  • Call the pros if water is more than a few inches deep
  • Ask about their process for drying and sanitizing
  • Get a written report for your insurance claim
  • If mold appears, contact a mold professional
  • Consider a water damage inspection to check for hidden moisture

Water damage does not wait

Every hour counts once water gets into floors and walls. One call starts the response.

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Frequently asked questions

Does homeowners insurance cover flooding from a hurricane?

Usually no. Standard homeowners policies exclude flooding, which includes water that rises from outside. You need separate flood insurance. Check your policy to see if flood is listed as an exclusion. If you have flood insurance, it covers flood damage from hurricanes, including storm surge.

What if wind and flood both damage my home?

You may need to file two claims: one with your homeowners insurer for wind damage, and one with your flood insurer for flood damage. Document each type of damage separately. Your insurers will determine which cause applies to each part of the damage. If there's a dispute, ask for a detailed explanation.

How can I tell if damage is from wind or flood?

Wind damage often involves broken windows, torn roofing, or fallen trees. Flood damage leaves water lines, mud, or soaked materials from rising water. If water entered through a wind-created opening, it's usually wind damage. If water rose from outside, it's flood damage. Photos and notes help your insurer decide.

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