What’s In A Storm Name?
On September 2024, an unnamed tropical storm—referred to as #8—hit the Cape Fear Region, dumping a staggering 18 inches of rain in some parts. Many homeowners were caught off guard by unexpected flooding, high winds, and significant land erosion. While lacking an official title, unnamed storms can be just as destructive as named storms, often leaving homeowners struggling to cope with the aftermath.
If your home suffers roof damage during one of these unpredictable storms, acting quickly is critical. Many insurance policies do cover storm-related damage, but there are key differences to consider. In North Carolina, for instance, insurance companies often apply a separate “Named Storm” deductible that can range from 1-10% of the insured property’s value. These high deductibles can add insult to injury when your home sustains damage. But what happens when the storm has no name?
Named Storm Deductibles: What’s the Difference?
The concept of “Named Storm” deductibles became more common after Hurricane Katrina in 2005, which caused over $64 billion of loss to the insurance industry. This catastrophic event led the insurance industry to implement separate deductibles specifically for named storms to help manage the overall risk and cost of home insurance premiums.
Named storm deductibles can be applied per event, per season, or per year, depending on your policy, and some homeowners may be required to pay the deductible more than once in a year if multiple named storms occur.
The Silver Lining of Unnamed Storms
When a storm has no name, like Tropical Storm #8, your standard deductible applies, rather than the higher “Named Storm” deductible. While the damage from unnamed storms can still be severe, this can be a small relief to homeowners who might otherwise be facing a much larger out-of-pocket cost for repairs. In this sense, an unnamed storm may actually save you money in the long run when it comes to insurance claims.
If your home’s roof or property sustained damage during the last storm it’s crucial to take action quickly. Not only will timely repairs prevent further damage, but working with your insurance company early on ensures you can take full advantage of your coverage.
How Patriot Roofing Can Help
At Patriot Roofing, we’re here to assist you every step of the way. From assessing roof damage to working directly with your insurance company, our experienced team ensures that your home gets the repairs it needs without unnecessary hassle.
Don’t wait until the next storm hits—contact us today to find out how you can better protect your home against damage. The Fortified Roof standard has been proven to offer better protection against wind and rain. If you have a home in a coastal NC county, you could be eligible for up to $6,00 towards a new roof.
Call us today at (910)218-0600 or send us a message.