Southern New England’s coastal communities are known for their breathtaking scenery, offering a welcome oasis from the stress of everyday living. But the beauty and charm of life on the coastline can come at a price and we’re not just talking about the rising cost of oceanfront real estate.
This year, forecasters at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) are revising their projections for the Atlantic hurricane season, upgrading their predictions to an “above normal” level of possible storm activity. The reason? Scientists say record-warm surface water temperatures in the Atlantic have the potential to fuel more powerful storms for the 2023 season, which goes from June 1 through November 30.
If you’re from the South Coast of Massachusetts and Rhode Island, like many of us here at BayCoast Insurance, you already know how vulnerable coastal properties can be to hurricanes and tropical storms. Hurricane Bob in 1991, Hurricane Carol in 1954, and the Great New England Hurricane of 1938 all come to mind. But even if you live inland, Southern New England homeowners may still face potential risks due to growing storm frequency and intensity.
What does that mean for homeowners in our area? Two words: be prepared.
From installing generators to making sure your roof is in good condition to flood-prevention measures for basements, such as sump pump installation, there are many things you can do now to take precautions before a storm strikes. Protecting your investment with the right homeowner’s insurance coverage is critical. That’s why it is important to have an insurance partner who is not only knowledgeable about coastal home insurance but also very familiar with the area in which you live.
The experienced team at BayCoast Insurance is ready to review your homeowner’s policy and offer key information you should know. For example:
- Did you know that when it comes to coastal homes, having a nuanced understanding of homeowners’ insurance policies is crucial? In comparison to homes further inland, the insurance requirements might be different. While standard homeowner policies often cover damage from unpredictable weather events such as wind, lightning, or hail, it’s essential to note that coastal properties frequently have a separate deductible for wind damage, aside from the standard all-perils deductible.
Therefore, we recommend that you thoroughly review your policy to comprehend your particular deductible circumstances. This is not merely about securing enhanced coverage—it’s about understanding how different policies function differently. Be aware that while you might find some insurance companies that do not have a special deductible, this could potentially lead to a higher annual premium. - One more key detail to understand about coastal home insurance is that not all insurers agree on the definition of coastal property. You may have a multi-million-dollar beachfront property, a vacation rental a mile down the road from the ocean, or even a primary residence that sits two miles inland. An insurer could view all of these properties as coastal properties, which means you may be subject to higher deductibles and potentially increased premiums. Then there’s this: many traditional insurance agencies are no longer willing to write coastal home insurance policies due to the unusually high-risk level and the potential for claims that have, in the recent past, put a significant financial burden on insurers.
At BayCoast Insurance, we are here to help you. As one of the South Coast’s leading independent insurance agencies, we have access to a wide range of reputable and competitive insurance providers and can tailor solutions to suit your specific needs. It’s this exceptional service that demonstrates our commitment to you, by offering personalized insurance options that not only support your goals but provide peace of mind as well.
Contact BayCoast Insurance today and we’ll work together to help you determine the best policy to fit your unique needs.
