Short answer: Rhode Island regulates hurricane deductibles closely, and the key fact for homeowners is that mitigation can make the deductible go away. Under state regulation 230-RICR-20-05-13, if you install the approved mitigation for your building code zone, such as pre-cut plywood shutters with pre-installed anchors, or permanent storm shutters or hurricane glass, the insurer must waive the hurricane deductible. The Rhode Island FAIR Plan covers owners the regular market won't, and insurers must give 60 days' notice before non-renewing.
This guide is general information for Rhode Island homeowners. It isn't legal advice. Your policy wording controls.
Step 1: Read your hurricane deductible notice
Rhode Island's Property Insurance and Weather Related Claims regulation requires insurers to explain how a hurricane deductible applies, whether as a percentage of the loss or of Coverage A, and what triggers it. A hurricane deductible applies to a hurricane event tied to National Weather Service hurricane warnings; a separate windstorm deductible can apply to other wind events.
Step 2: Use mitigation to waive it
The regulation sets the maximum mitigation an insurer can require by Rhode Island building code zone, and requires a waiver of the hurricane deductible once you've done it:
- Zone 1: insurers can't require mitigation, but if you voluntarily install measures allowed in Zones 2 and 3, the insurer must waive the hurricane deductible.
- Zone 2: the most that can be required is plywood shutters, pre-cut to fit all window and door openings, stored dry and accessible on site, with anchor hardware pre-installed.
- Zone 3: pre-cut plywood shutters as above, plus roof tie-downs.
- Permanent storm shutters or hurricane glass meeting the state code are acceptable alternatives. The insurer can't require them, but if you install them, it must waive the hurricane deductible. It may first verify they meet code.
Ask your agent which zone your home is in, document the work, and send proof to your insurer.
Step 3: Flood is separate
No homeowners policy covers flood or storm surge. Quote a policy through FloodSmart.
Step 4: The Rhode Island FAIR Plan
Rhode Island's FAIR Plan, administered by the Rhode Island Joint Reinsurance Association, covers property owners with an insurable interest who can't get coverage in the voluntary market. A licensed producer submits the application. See FAIR Plan vs. surplus lines home insurance.
Step 5: Non-renewal and claims
- Non-renewal: written notice at least 60 days before expiration under R.I. Gen. Laws §27-29-17.2. See Rhode Island homeowners non-renewal rules.
- Claims: under 230-RICR-20-40-2, insurers must acknowledge a claim in writing within 15 days and accept or deny within 21 days after properly executed proofs of loss, or explain why they need more time. See Rhode Island insurance claim deadlines.
See our tables: non-renewal notice rules by state, insurance claim deadlines by state and home insurance claim and lawsuit deadlines by state.
Questions? Contact Alishahi Insurance or call (877) 711-4545. See insurance in Rhode Island.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get my Rhode Island hurricane deductible waived?
Yes. Under 230-RICR-20-05-13, if you install the approved mitigation for your building code zone, or permanent storm shutters or hurricane glass meeting code, the insurer must waive the hurricane deductible.
What mitigation can a Rhode Island insurer require?
In Zone 1, none. In Zone 2, at most pre-cut plywood shutters with pre-installed anchors. In Zone 3, those shutters plus roof tie-downs.
How much notice before a Rhode Island homeowners non-renewal?
At least 60 days, under R.I. Gen. Laws §27-29-17.2.
How fast must a Rhode Island insurer decide a claim?
Within 21 days after properly executed proofs of loss, or it must explain why it needs more time.
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.