What happens to insurance services and rates during a storm?
Binding restrictions
When a hurricane, tropical storm or major severe weather outbreak is forecast, insurers commonly suspend new policies, coverage increases and deductible reductions in the affected area until the threat passes. You cannot buy a policy or lower a deductible the day before a storm. Flood insurance through the National Flood Insurance Program generally has a 30 day waiting period anyway. The time to adjust coverage is at renewal, well before storm season.
Claims service after a big storm
- Insurers bring in catastrophe adjusters from other states, so the person who inspects your roof may not know local building practices.
- Inspections can take longer to schedule.
- Georgia's claim rules still apply: insurers generally must acknowledge a claim within 15 days and give written reasons if they need more time.
- Reporting online or through the app is often faster than waiting on hold.
When rates change
Rates change at renewal, not mid-policy. After a heavy storm year, insurers file for rate increases in the affected territories, and those hit everyone in the area. Your own claim may also affect discounts.
Contractor prices during storms
Demand for tree crews, tarps and roofers spikes after storms. Georgia's price gouging law applies to designated goods and services during a declared state of emergency, and complaints go to the Georgia Attorney General's Consumer Protection Division. Get written estimates, avoid large cash deposits, and be wary of anyone asking you to sign over your insurance proceeds after a declared disaster.
More: storm deductibles, claim timelines and storm chaser scams.