Storm Season Prep Guide
North Carolina faces hurricanes, tropical storms, and severe weather every year. Use this interactive checklist to protect your family, property, and finances before the next storm hits.
Know the Risks
North Carolina Storm Facts
55+
Hurricanes have hit NC since 1851
$22B
Damage from Hurricane Florence (2018)
25%
Of flood claims come from low-risk areas
1-5%
Typical NC hurricane deductible range
Insurance Tips for Storm Season
What every NC homeowner should know before hurricane season.
Understand your hurricane deductible
NC law allows insurers to set separate hurricane deductibles, typically 1-5% of your dwelling coverage. On a $300,000 home, a 2% deductible means you pay the first $6,000 out of pocket. Review your declarations page or call us to check yours.
Flood insurance is separate — and worth it
Your homeowners policy does NOT cover flood damage. Period. Even if you're not in a designated flood zone, NC's flat coastal plains and heavy rainfall mean flooding can happen anywhere. NFIP policies have a 30-day waiting period, so don't wait until a storm is forecast.
Document everything before the storm
Walk through every room with your phone camera recording. Open closets, cabinets, and drawers. This video becomes your proof of what you owned and its condition. Store it in the cloud so it's accessible even if your phone is damaged.
Don't wait to file a claim
After a storm, file your claim as soon as it's safe. Allstate's claims line is 1-800-726-6033, available 24/7. Take photos of all damage before making temporary repairs. Keep receipts for any emergency repairs — they're typically reimbursable.
Review your auto comprehensive coverage
Comprehensive auto coverage pays for storm damage — flooding, hail, fallen trees on your car. If you only carry liability, storm damage to your vehicle is not covered. Now is the time to add comprehensive if you don't have it.
Don't Wait Until the Storm Is Coming
Review your coverage now while there's time to make changes. Once a storm is named, insurers stop writing new policies and making changes in affected areas.