07/23/2026
Has anyone else noticed that it seems like every heavy rain storm now gets a name?
Years ago, a strong thunderstorm was just that a thunderstorm. Today, it feels like every weather event is being branded and hyped before it even arrives. The problem isn’t just the name. It’s what that name can mean when it comes to your homeowners insurance.
Many insurance policies in Louisiana have TWO different deductibles:
• Standard (All Other Perils) Deductible – This applies to things like wind, hail, or other covered losses that aren’t considered a named storm.
• Named Storm or Hurricane Deductible – This is usually MUCH higher and is often calculated as a percentage of your home’s insured value.
Let’s put that into perspective.
If your home is insured for $500,000 and you have a 2% named storm deductible, you’re paying the first $10,000 out of pocket before insurance pays a dime. Compare that to a standard $1,000 or $2,500 deductible.
That’s a HUGE difference.
So when a tropical rain event gets assigned a name, it isn’t just something for the weather channel to talk about. It can potentially mean thousands of dollars more out of your pocket if your home is damaged and your policy’s named storm deductible is triggered.
Homeowners need to understand their policies BEFORE storm season not after damage has already occurred.
We’re not trying to create fear. We’re trying to create awareness. Ask your insurance agent these questions:
* What is my named storm deductible?
* When does it apply?
* Is it a percentage or a flat dollar amount?
* What events trigger it under my policy?
Knowledge is power, especially when it comes to protecting the biggest investment most people will ever make their home.
Stay informed. Read your policy. Don’t wait until the next “named storm” to find out what you’re responsible for paying.
One important note: not every storm that gets a name automatically triggers the named storm deductible. It depends on how your individual insurance policy defines a “named storm” (for example, some policies only apply it once a system reaches tropical storm status and is officially named by weather authorities). It’s always worth checking the specific language in your policy.
