Short answer: In New York, a hurricane deductible on a homeowners or dwelling fire policy applies only when the National Weather Service determines the hurricane made landfall in New York. It covers only wind damage from 12 hours before landfall until 12 hours after the last New York hurricane watch or warning for that storm is canceled, under the amended Insurance Regulation 159.
The trigger: landfall in New York
The Department of Financial Services (DFS) adopted the third amendment to Insurance Regulation 159 (11 NYCRR 74) to standardize hurricane deductibles, as directed by Insurance Law §3445. Under the amended rule:
- A hurricane deductible is triggered only when the meteorological entity, in practice the National Weather Service, determines that the hurricane made landfall in New York.
- It applies only to damage caused by wind during the period beginning 12 hours before landfall in New York and ending 12 hours after the last hurricane watch or warning for New York for that storm is canceled.
A hurricane that makes landfall in New Jersey or Connecticut and then brings wind to Long Island shouldn't set off a New York hurricane deductible under that standard. Damage outside the time window falls under your regular deductible.
Where these deductibles appear
DFS's storm preparedness page says some insurers require hurricane deductibles for homes in the five boroughs of New York City, Nassau and Suffolk counties, and coastal Westchester County. These are commonly 1% to 5% of the dwelling's insured amount. The regulation also says an insurer can include a hurricane deductible only if it shows DFS there's enough hurricane exposure to justify one.
Windstorm deductibles are different
DFS warns that some policies offer optional windstorm deductibles, also often 1% to 5%, that apply when wind of any speed causes damage. Weigh the premium savings against what you'd pay out of pocket after an ordinary windstorm.
Notices you should receive
The regulation requires a policyholder notice explaining the deductible amount, the trigger and time window, and that the dollar amount changes if your coverage limit changes, such as through inflation adjustments. DFS's Circular Letter No. 3 (2025) also tells insurers to notify the Department when they activate or intend to activate a hurricane or windstorm deductible.
Bottom line
Read your renewal notice and find the dollar amount of any hurricane or windstorm deductible before storm season. Flood is separate, and NFIP policies usually have a 30-day waiting period. See wind and hail insurance.
Questions? Contact Alishahi Insurance or call (877) 711-4545. Vea insurance in New York.
Frequently asked questions
When does a New York hurricane deductible apply?
Only when the National Weather Service determines the hurricane made landfall in New York, and only to wind damage in the regulated time window.
What is the time window?
From 12 hours before landfall in New York until 12 hours after the last New York hurricane watch or warning for that storm is canceled.
How large are New York hurricane deductibles?
DFS says they are commonly 1% to 5% of the dwelling's insured amount.
Is a windstorm deductible the same as a hurricane deductible?
No. Optional windstorm deductibles can apply when wind of any speed causes damage.
Alishahi Insurance · 439 N Canon Dr, Penthouse, Beverly Hills, CA 90210 · (877) 711-4545 · CA License #4348151. General information only. This isn't legal, tax or financial advice or a coverage determination. Coverage depends on policy language and underwriting, and rules vary by state.