How Hurricanes and Tropical Storms Can Impact Connecticut
Connecticut may not experience hurricanes every year, but tropical systems and hurricanes have caused significant impacts throughout the state.
- Heavy rain can lead to widespread inland flooding
- Strong winds can damage roofs, siding, windows, and trees
- Coastal communities may experience storm surge and flooding
- Extended power outages can create additional safety and financial challenges
- Storm impacts can continue after the weather event through debris, contractor fraud, and property damage
Key Hurricane/Tropical Storm Risks
- Damaging winds
- Inland flooding from heavy rainfall
- Flash flooding
- Coastal flooding and storm surge
- Falling trees and power lines
- Power outages
- Flying debris
- Damage to roofs, siding, and personal property
- Post-storm scams and contractor fraud
What to Do Before a Hurricane
- Review your insurance policies and understand what is and is not covered
- Ask your insurer if your policy includes a hurricane or wind deductible
- Understand whether you have flood insurance coverage
- Create or update a home inventory with photos and videos
- Secure outdoor furniture and loose items around your property
- Trim trees and remove potential hazards
- Gather emergency supplies and important documents
- Know evacuation routes and emergency alerts in your area
- Charge phones and backup power devices
What to Do After a Hurricane
- Stay away from downed power lines and hazardous areas
- Follow guidance from local emergency officials
- Document damage with photos and videos if safe to do so
- Contact your insurer or agent as soon as possible
- Keep receipts for emergency repairs and cleanup expenses
- Avoid unlicensed contractors and disaster-related scams
- Do not begin permanent repairs until your insurer has reviewed the damage
Hurricane Preparedness Checklist
- Download the full Hurricane Preparedness Checklist (PDF)
Understanding your coverage
Standard homeowners insurance generally covers certain types of hurricane-related wind damage, but coverage varies by policy.
Important coverage considerations:
- Flood damage is not covered under standard homeowners, renters, or business insurance policies
- Flood insurance requires a separate policy
- Storm surge damage is generally considered flood damage
- Some policies may include separate hurricane or wind deductibles
- Coverage limits, exclusions, and deductibles vary by policy
Questions to ask before a storm:
- Do I have flood insurance?
- Do I have a hurricane or wind deductible?
- Do I understand my coverage limits?
- Have I documented my belongings?
FAQs
Does homeowners insurance cover hurricane damage?
Homeowners insurance generally covers wind-related damage from hurricanes, but policies differ. Review your policy carefully.
Does homeowners insurance cover flooding from a hurricane?
No. Flood damage, including storm surge, is generally not covered under standard homeowners insurance and requires separate flood coverage.
What is a hurricane deductible?
Some policies include a separate hurricane or wind deductible that applies to storm-related claims. These deductibles are often based on a percentage of the home's insured value.
Do I need flood insurance if I do not live near the coast?
Yes. Hurricane-related flooding and heavy rainfall can impact inland areas throughout Connecticut.
When should I review my insurance coverage?
Before hurricane season or before severe weather is expected. Waiting until a storm is approaching may limit your options.
Be Prepared Before the Next Storm
Even one storm can cause significant damage. Understanding your coverage, preparing your property, and knowing your risks can help protect what matters most.
The Connecticut Insurance Department is available to help answer insurance questions and support consumers before and after a disaster.