Protecting Your Home from Nature's Fiercest Forces
Mother Nature can be unforgiving at times. Natural disasters can catch us off guard, causing serious damage in a short amount of time. Whether it’s hail, lightning, tornadoes, wildfires, or hurricanes, having an emergency plan – including having a battery-operated radio, disaster survival kit, and evacuation plan ready – can make all the difference.
Understanding the Risks Before They Strike
Knowing what to expect is the first step toward protecting your home and loved ones. Each type of disaster brings unique challenges, but with preparation and awareness, you can stay safe and ready for whatever comes your way.
Most Common Natural Disasters
Learn more about some of the most common natural disasters, including how to stay safe and protect your home.
Windstorms and hurricanes bring strong winds, heavy rain, and flooding that can wreak havoc on your home. Securing your windows, reinforcing your roof, making a home inventory, and creating a family evacuation plan can help you ride out the storm safely. Make sure you have a plan of action for before, during, and after the storm.
Tornadoes can strike nearly anywhere with little warning, turning everyday objects into dangerous projectiles. The key to staying safe? Have a designated safe room and keep emergency supplies on hand. Preparing ahead of time can make all the difference when every second counts.
Hailstorms may not last long, but they pack a punch! Hailstones can damage roofs, cars, and windows in minutes. The good news? You can prepare by performing regular maintenance on your roof, securing outdoor items, and parking your car in a safe spot.
Lightning strikes are more than just a dramatic flash in the sky: they can cause fires and power surges that damage your appliances. Installing surge protectors and knowing what to do when a storm hits can keep you safe.
Wildfires spread incredibly fast and can be devastating. You can reduce your risk by clearing dry brush around your home, using fire-resistant materials, and having an evacuation plan ready. It’s all about staying one step ahead.
People often underestimate the power and force of water, yet floods can occur in any flood zone—not just high-risk areas. To stay safe, know your flood zone, identify nearby higher ground, and avoid crossing flowing water or flooded roadways.
Disaster Information and Resources
Take note of these resources and keep them in a safe place so they’re readily available if a natural disaster occurs.
Provides vital resources for individuals, families, and communities affected by natural disasters.
A federal agency that helps people prepare for, respond to, and recover from disasters.
Coordinates preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation efforts to protect Florida’s residents and visitors before, during, and after disasters.
Don’t forget to register for AlertFlorida, the state’s free emergency and public safety alert system.
Works to safeguard Georgia’s citizens by leading the state’s efforts in disaster preparedness, response, recovery, and homeland security.
Manages the state’s comprehensive emergency management program, helping South Carolinians prepare for, respond to, and recover from all types of disasters.
Offers reliable weather forecasts, severe storm alerts, and ongoing climate monitoring.
Avoiding Fraud
In the wake of many natural disasters, it is an unfortunate truth that many “bad actors” try to take advantage of unsuspecting homeowners. It is a best practice to contact your homeowners insurance company first in the event that your home needs repairs. Remember to always keep your insurance company in the loop to help ensure you maintain control of your claims process.
File a Claim, 24 Hours a Day
Our claims services are available all day every day, rain or shine. You can file a claim using our online Customer Portal or call 1-866-277-9871. We are here to help.
File a ClaimFrequently Asked Questions
We get it, the details of insurance policies are complex. These answers to some of our most commonly asked questions should help make it a little easier.
See All FAQs
You can file a claim with American Integrity by calling our 24/7 claims line at 1-866-277-9871 or filing online through our Customer Portal. If you have tropical storm or hurricane-related damage, please call 844-MYAIIC1 (844-692-4421).
Check your policy documents (you can view these online by logging into our Customer Portal for specific coverage details). You can also contact your agent to clarify what types of damage are covered under your policy. Typically, your policy covers damage from perils like fire, windstorms, and theft, but may exclude others like flooding unless you have additional coverage.
We offer coverage designed for the Southeast’s unique risks, like hurricanes and flooding, supported by deep local expertise and outstanding service. Our broad product portfolio covers everything from homes to boats, golf carts, and rental properties—always with integrity at the heart of what we do.
As a Florida homeowner, you have rights outlined in the Homeowner Claims Bill of Rights, including timely communication from your insurer, the right to a detailed estimate, and a prompt resolution of claims. Click here to view the full Homeowner Claims Bill of Rights.
A deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket before your insurance kicks in. For example, with a $1,000 deductible, if you have $10,000 in damage, you pay the first $1,000, and your insurance covers the remaining $9,000.
In most coastal states, home insurance policies have two deductibles; one for hurricane damage (typically a percentage of your Coverage A amount) and one for “all other perils” (typically a flat amount). A separate hurricane deductible exists due to the high risk of extensive hurricane damage. It’s typically higher than other deductibles and only applies when a named hurricane causes damage.
If you are an American Integrity policyholder, contact us immediately if your home is uninhabitable. We can help arrange temporary housing and cover additional living expenses if your policy includes Additional Living Expenses coverage.
Home insurance covers many natural disasters like hurricanes and fires, but often excludes floods and earthquakes, which require additional coverage.
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