Or are you unknowingly exposed to gaps in your insurance coverage?
Every year, Georgians brace for hurricane season—but too many are caught off guard by the devastating impact storms can bring, even far inland. If you think hurricane damage is only a coastal concern, think again. In 2024, Hurricane Helene shattered that myth—bringing record-breaking rainfall to Atlanta and knocking out power to over a million residents across the state.
At The Oak Insurance Group, we believe peace of mind starts with preparation. This guide walks you through a step-by-step insurance and safety checklist to help you protect your home, your finances, and your family before the next storm threatens Georgia.
Here’s what you’ll learn:
- Why hurricane risk in Georgia extends far beyond the coast
- Which insurance policies and coverages are essential
- How to fortify your home and document your assets before a storm
- The key steps to take before, during, and after a hurricane to protect yourself and your claim
Georgia’s Widespread Hurricane Risk: What History Has Taught Us
Hurricane damage in Georgia doesn’t stop at the coast. From the 1898 Category 4 hurricane that devastated Brunswick to the more recent inland chaos caused by Hurricane Helene, Georgia’s entire geography is vulnerable.
- Historic storms like the 1893 Sea Islands Hurricane killed thousands and displaced tens of thousands.
- Irma (2017) caused 1.5 million power outages in Georgia—despite making landfall in Florida.
- Helene (2024) brought over 11 inches of rain to Atlanta, killed 37, and left over one million without power.
Bottom line: Every Georgian, no matter where they live, needs a hurricane readiness plan—and it starts with reviewing your insurance coverage.
Insurance Essentials for Hurricane Protection
What Does Your Homeowners Insurance Actually Cover?
Standard homeowners policies typically cover wind-related hurricane damage:
- Structural damage to your home and other buildings
- Damage to personal belongings
- Temporary housing under “loss of use” coverage
Important reminder from our team at The Oak: Flood damage is excluded. To fully protect your property, you’ll need separate flood insurance—and the time to add it is before a storm is named.
Special Deductibles You Might Be Overlooking
Georgia allows insurance providers to include hurricane or windstorm deductibles, calculated as a percentage of your home’s insured value:
- Common range: 1% to 5%
- Example: A $300,000 home with a 2% deductible = $6,000 out-of-pocket before coverage kicks in
Not sure what deductible you have? Reach out to your Oak Insurance advisor—we’ll walk through your policy with you.
Do You Need Flood Insurance?
Even if your mortgage doesn’t require it, 25% of flood claims occur in moderate-to-low risk areas. Every Georgia homeowner should at least explore the option.
- Available via NFIP or private insurers
- 30-day waiting period unless mandated by a lender
- Separate contents coverage required
Need help evaluating your flood risk? The Oak Insurance Group can help you assess your property’s exposure and identify the best policy for your needs.
Your Comprehensive Insurance Preparation Checklist
By May 31: Review Your Coverage
- Contact your Oak advisor to update homeowners, auto, and flood policies
- Confirm coverage limits reflect current replacement costs
- Understand all deductibles, especially wind or hurricane-specific
- Verify your “loss of use” coverage for temporary housing
Assess Flood Insurance Needs
- Use FEMA’s map tool at georgiadfirm.com
- Buy flood insurance early—don’t wait until a storm is named
- Consider it even if not required
Document Your Assets
- Create a photo or video inventory of all belongings
- Use geotagged videos and store them in the cloud
- Document receipts, serial numbers, and model info
- Keep digital and waterproof copies of:
- Insurance policies
- IDs and legal docs
- Banking and mortgage info
- Medical and prescription records
Want a digital inventory template? Ask your Oak advisor—we’ve got one ready to send you.
Fortify Your Home Before a Storm
Structural Preparations
- Inspect and secure your roof (use hurricane clips/straps)
- Install shutters or 5/8″ plywood for windows
- Reinforce garage doors
- Seal exterior gaps to prevent water intrusion
Outdoor Maintenance
- Trim trees and remove dead branches
- Clear gutters and drains
- Secure or store outdoor items
- Repair loose fencing
Utility and Generator Readiness
- Know shut-off locations for water, gas, and electric
- Test your generator and stock safe fuel
- Install battery-operated carbon monoxide detectors
If you’re unsure what improvements may impact your premiums or eligibility for windstorm coverage, we’ll walk you through it.
Assemble Your Emergency Supply Kit
Food and Water
- 1 gallon of water per person/day (3-day minimum)
- Non-perishables, paper goods, and a manual can opener
Communication
- NOAA weather radio (battery or hand-crank)
- Extra chargers and power banks
- Printed local maps
Health and Safety
- First aid kit and 7-day medication supply
- Sanitation items, face masks, and disinfectants
Tools and Miscellaneous
- Utility shut-off tools
- Fire extinguisher and signaling whistle
- Duct tape and plastic sheeting
- Cash in small bills—ATMs may not work
Evacuation Plans Save Lives
Know Your Zone
Use GEMA’s map at gema.georgia.gov to find your evacuation zone (A–D).
Map Multiple Routes
- Primary: GA Hwy 40 West
- I-16 contraflow westbound from Savannah
- GPS may be unreliable—keep paper maps
Plan Accommodations
- Identify pet-friendly hotels or inland contacts
- Expect to be away for at least a week
- Public shelters are limited and don’t accept pets
Need help finding local shelter info for your area? Give us a call—we’ll help you find it.
After the Storm: What to Do Immediately
Prioritize Safety
- Avoid standing water and downed power lines
- Don’t enter unsafe buildings
- Watch for snakes and wild animals
Prevent Health Hazards
- Never use generators indoors
- Discard perishable food if power was out more than 4 hours
- Dry flooded areas within 48 hours to prevent mold
Filing Insurance Claims the Right Way
Document Everything First
- Take extensive photos/videos before cleanup
- Keep all receipts and records
- Make only temporary repairs (e.g., tarps)
Contact Your Insurer ASAP
- Call your homeowner, auto, and flood insurers
- Get and record your claim numbers
- Cooperate—but also keep your own records
Consider a Public Adjuster
If your claim is complex, a licensed public adjuster can advocate on your behalf—but beware of fraudsters going door-to-door.
The Oak Insurance Group is here to help you understand your coverage, guide your claim, and connect you with trusted repair professionals if needed.
Don’t Underestimate Inland Risk
Hurricane Helene proved it: even metro Atlanta isn’t safe from hurricane impacts. Rainfall records were shattered, and power outages affected counties hundreds of miles from the coast.
Whether you’re in Savannah, Macon, or Marietta—no one is immune to storm damage. We’ll help you plan for the worst and prepare for the best.
Helpful Resources for Georgia Residents
- GEMA: gema.georgia.gov for evacuation routes and shelter info
- GDOT: Dial 511 for traffic and road conditions
- Georgia Department of Insurance: oci.georgia.gov or call 1-800-656-2298 for insurance support
- The Oak Insurance Group: Your go-to for hurricane insurance, claims help, and storm prep support
It’s Not If—It’s When
Once a storm is named, you can’t change your policy or add new coverage. That’s why we urge every Georgia homeowner: review your coverage now, not later.
Ready to Prepare with Confidence?
Book a free policy review with The Oak Insurance Group—we’ll walk you through your current coverage, explain any gaps, and help you protect what matters most. No pressure, just peace of mind.
Start your storm prep the right way—with a trusted local advisor by your side.
