Hurricanes can wreck boats and watercraft. Boat owners worry about whether their insurance covers hurricane damage throughout the Atlantic hurricane season, from June to November. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) reported 30 named storms and 12 US landfalls in the 2020 hurricane season. These storms damaged boats and marinas, costing billions. Fortunately, many boat insurance policies cover hurricane damage. Coverage depends on the policy and loss conditions. In this article, we will examine whether boat insurance covers hurricane damage and what boat owners should consider when selecting a policy to protect their investment.
Does your boat Insurance cover boat hurricane damage?
Regarding boat insurance, one of the common questions is whether or not it covers hurricane damage. The answer is yes, depending on the specific policy and coverage.
If the policyholder has the correct coverage, boat insurance covers hurricane damage. Two main types of coverage can protect boats from hurricane damage: physical damage coverage and liability coverage.
Physical damage coverage covers hurricane-damaged boats. This can damage the boat’s hull, motor, sails, rigging, and other parts. Physical damage coverage can not replace lost or stolen boat items like fishing gear or personal belongings.
Does boat insurance usually cover hurricane damage?
Boaters need liability insurance too. This coverage covers legal fees if the boat injures someone or damages property. It also covers boating accident medical expenses.
Boat owners should make sure their hurricane insurance covers repairs or replacements. Look for plans that cover physical damage and liabilities. Check the policy for exclusions and limits.
Understanding boat insurance coverage and ensuring the policy fits your boat is crucial. Thus, your boat is hurricane-proof.
What hurricane damages are covered by boat Insurance?
Boat insurance policies usually cover hurricane damage; however, coverage may vary; here is the complete list of what hurricane damages are typically covered by boat insurance:
Hull damage:
Most boat insurance policies cover hurricane damage to the boat, including wind, rain, and floods. This may harm the boat’s hull, deck, motor, and other parts.
Wreckage and salvage:
Boat insurance may cover salvage or removal if your boat is beyond repair. This may include pulling the boat to shore, dismantling it, and disposing of dangerous contents.
Private property:
It covers damaged fishing gear, electronics, and other personal property.
Liability coverage:
It also covers liabilities if your boat causes injury or property damage during a hurricane. This may damage other vessels, docks, or structures.
Boat Insurance covers Loss of use:
Some boat insurance policies cover the cost of hiring a boat while your boat is being repaired.
Does RV insurance cover hurricane damage?
RV insurance covers hurricane damage. RV liability coverage includes storm damage, whereas full-timer coverage may offer house insurance-like protection. Comprehensive RV insurance covers theft, vandalism, windshield damage, acts of nature, rocks and debris kicked up by other RVs, and animal mishaps. Some comprehensive insurance policies cover flood damage from storms.
RV insurance regulations differ per state. Homeowner’s insurance usually doesn’t cover hurricane damage to automobiles, RVs, or boats, but RV insurance may. Comprehensive car, RV, and boat insurance may cover damage to these vehicles.
Does progressive boat insurance cover hurricane damage?
Yes, Progressive boat insurance can cover hurricane damage only if the boat owner has purchased the optional Comprehensive & Collision package. Progressive boat insurance covers physical damage from covered dangers, including windstorms and hail. However, only comprehensive insurance covers storm damage to boats. Check the boat owner’s policy or call customer support to confirm hurricane damage coverage. In a hurricane, the liability-only boat policy won’t cover watercraft damage.
Does boat insurance cover hull damage?
Yes, boat insurance typically covers hull damage. Hull insurance covers a boat’s body against collision/accident, weather, fire, sinking/capsizing, barratry, piracy, or jettisoning. Many conventional boat insurance policies also cover hull damage, injuries, and other boats or property damage. It’s crucial to review your policy’s limitations and exclusions. Some boat insurance policies exclude canoes, kayaks, and personal watercraft. Boat insurance may cover engine damage or a fractured engine block if the damage is not attributable to natural wear and tear from lack of maintenance.
Does boat insurance cover storm damage?
Yes, many boat insurance policies cover storm damage. Boat insurance policies cover damage caused by storms, such as lightning strikes, high winds, hail, and heavy rain. Some policies may also cover damage caused by hurricanes or tropical storms. However, certain policies may exclude flooding or storm surge damage.
Ask your boat insurance carrier about storm damage coverage if you need clarification.
They can explain your policy and advise you on storm damage to your boat.
What does boat insurance not cover?
Boat insurance protects owners from financial damages from vessel damage or Loss. Insurance doesn’t cover everything. Boat insurance often excludes the following:
- Boat depreciation, wear, and tear.
- Corrosion, rot, rust, mildew, moisture, or weathering.
- Intentional acts of the boat owner, such as illegal activities or racing.
- Damages caused by unapproved uses of the boat or an act of God.
- Towing, storage, or pre-existing damage.
- Environmental damage or damage to specific types of watercraft, such as canoes or kayaks.
Boat insurance policies vary by type, use, and insurer. Thus, the policy must be examined carefully to determine coverage. Consult a yacht insurance professional to review coverage alternatives and ensure proper vessel protection.
Does boat insurance cover animal damage?
Yes, most boat insurance policies do cover animal damage. Squirrels, rats, and raccoons can damage boats. However, coverage levels and exclusions vary by policy, so verify with your insurance company.
Boat insurance covers animal damage and other damages and injuries. Boat insurance covers physical damage if your boat hits another boat, a log, or a rock. Your policy may cover damage to your boat or equipment, injuries to persons, and damage to other boats or property.
