June 1 marks the beginning of Atlantic hurricane season, which ends on November 30.  This season NOAA predicts between four and eight named storms may become hurricanes and between one and four could become major Category 3 or above storms, which have winds in excess of 111 mph.

Take steps to prepare and have an action plan in case you need to evacuate and to ensure that you have sufficient supplies for a few days. Put together a disaster supply kit with a flashlight, batteries, first aid supplies, cashl, nonperishable food and water.

From an insurance perspective, wind damage from tropical storms and hurricanes is covered under standard homeowners, renters and business insurance policies. Flood damage is excluded under standard home and business policies. Separate flood coverage can be purchased from FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) and from a few private insurance companies. In most cases, a 30-day waiting period applies after purchasing flood insurance before the policy becomes effective. Therefore, it’s important to purchase coverage in advance.  Once a storm is threatening, it’s too late to get coverage for that specific event.

Damage to cars from tropical storms and hurricanes is covered under the optional comprehensive portion of an auto insurance policy. Comprehensive coverage includes wind damage, flooding and falling objects such as tree limbs.

Steps you can take to make your home more hurricane proof

There are a number of things you should do in advance to make sure that your property is ready should a hurricane come your way this season.

  • Trim or remove damaged trees and limbs. This general takes advanced planning, so don’t wait until a storm is imminent.
  • Check rain gutters and downspouts.  Secure anything that is loose and clear any clogged areas or debris to prevent water damage to your property.
  • Check windows and doors. Consider retrofitting to reinforce and secure the roof, windows and doors as needed.  Don’t forget to check garage doors.
  • Get a generator.  Consider purchasing a portable or installed generator to provide power during outages. After a hurricane you may be without power for days. Keep generators and other alternate power/heat sources outside, at least 20 feet away from windows and doors and protected from moisture. Hire an electrician to properly connect a generator to your home. This isn’t a do it yourself project unless you are an experienced electrician.

Beyond home preparations, take some time to consider what your insurance needs might be after a hurricane using a Hurricane Season Insurance Checklist.  Contact your insurance agent to ensure that your coverage and limits are sufficient for your needs.

Read Other Blog Posts

MHM 1

Introducing the Murphy Insurance Homeowner’s Manual: Your Guide to Preventing Costly Home Repairs & Damages

Murphy Insurance Agency has launched a new Homeowner’s Manual designed to help you prevent costly home repairs and avoid common insurance claims. Backed by decades of real-world experience, this practical guide offers seasonal tips, safety advice, and a maintenance checklist to protect your home—and your wallet—all year long. Download your copy today!
Protecting Your Marlborough Home A Local Guide to Homeowners Insurance

Protecting Your Marlborough Home: A Local Guide to Homeowners Insurance

Thinking about homeowners' insurance in Marlborough, MA? Whether you're settling into your first home or reviewing your coverage, Murphy Insurance offers expert guidance and tailored protection designed for New England’s unique risks. Discover what’s included, what to expect, and how our local team can help you protect what matters most.
House with trees

10 Signs a Tree May Fall on Your Property

Trees can be valuable additions to any property; however, each year, fallen trees and branches cause millions of dollars in property damage. It is crucial to proactively recognize signs a tree may be at risk of falling to help prevent dangerous and costly accidents.
Renters Insurance in Medway, MA Protect Yourself Original

Renters Insurance in Medway, MA: Protect Yourself

Renting in Medway, MA offers convenience—but without renters insurance, your belongings may be at risk. While your landlord’s policy covers the building, it doesn’t protect your personal property or shield you from liability. Renters insurance provides affordable coverage for theft, fire, water damage, and personal liability. With options tailored to your needs, local agencies like Murphy Insurance make it easy to get covered.

Spring Clean Your Insurance: A Fresh Start for Your Policies

With Spring often comes spring cleaning. Have you ever thought about giving your insurance policies a little spring cleaning too? Just like your home, your insurance coverage needs attention and regular updates to ensure it’s still a good fit for your current needs.
What to Do When a Hurricane Threatens

Get Ready for Hurricane Season in New England: What You Need to Know

While New England is not typically directly in the hurricane "strike zone" like the Gulf Coast or the Southeast, that doesn’t mean we’re immune to the dangers of hurricanes and tropical storms. With that in mind, it's important to have a plan as hurricane season approaches and be sure you understand your insurance coverage.
Notify Your Agent if Home in a Trust

Notify Your Insurer If Your Home Is In A Trust

It may not seem like a big deal, but if your home is held in a trust and your insurance policy isn’t updated to reflect that, it could cause serious problems if you ever need to file a claim. If you’ve put your home into a trust or are planning to, reach out to your insurance agent.
Driver

Defensive Driving Tips

Using proper defensive driving techniques will help keep both you and other drivers safe on the road. With this in mind, be sure to implement the following defensive driving guidance the next time you get behind the wheel.
Women talking

Understanding the Insurance Knowledge Gap Among Gen Z

Surveys reveals that many Gen Z adults feel overwhelmed by insurance and lack understanding of basic coverage terms, leading to gaps in their protection. However, by working with trusted insurance professionals, they can gain clarity and make informed decisions about essential coverage for their future.

Visit Our Homeowners Insurance Page

Homeowners Insurance

At Murphy Insurance, we take great care in assessing your options for homeowners insurance to ensure that you receive the most favorable value. Our dedication to serving you entails collaborating with highly-rated insurance providers and conducting comprehensive assessments of available choices. Our goal is to achieve the ideal equilibrium between affordability and coverage that suits your unique needs. Please let us provide you with a customized homeowners insurance quote.