Short answer: On the South Carolina coast, many homeowners need two or three policies: a homeowners policy that may exclude wind, a wind and hail policy from the South Carolina Wind and Hail Underwriting Association (the Wind Pool) when the regular market won't write it, and a separate flood policy. Insurers must give at least 60 days' written notice before non-renewing, stating the precise reason. South Carolina law doesn't set a fixed number of days for paying claims.
This guide is general information for South Carolina homeowners. It isn't legal advice. Your policy wording controls.
Step 1: Check the wind exclusion
Along the coast, private insurers often exclude wind and hail or add a separate hurricane deductible. Read your declarations page and see hurricane deductibles explained.
Step 2: The Wind Pool for coastal wind and hail
The South Carolina Wind and Hail Underwriting Association sells wind and hail coverage for property in the state's legally defined coastal area when owners can't buy it in the regular market. It covers only wind and hail, and you apply through a licensed South Carolina agent or broker (Wind Pool Q&A). Read the South Carolina Wind Pool explained.
Step 3: Add flood
Neither a homeowners policy nor the Wind Pool covers flood or storm surge. Quote a policy through the NFIP or a private insurer, and buy before storm season because of waiting periods.
Step 4: Non-renewal notice with a precise reason
Under S.C. Code §38-75-740, an insurer must give written notice at least 60 days before expiration or the anniversary date, stating the precise reason for non-renewal. Details: South Carolina homeowners non-renewal rules.
Step 5: Claims
South Carolina's unfair claims practices law doesn't set a fixed number of days, but insurers must act reasonably promptly and decide within a reasonable time after proof of loss. Unreasonable delay can be an unfair claim practice; you can complain to the South Carolina Department of Insurance. If you have both a homeowners and a Wind Pool policy, report the loss to both. More: South Carolina 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 South Carolina.
Frequently asked questions
What does the South Carolina Wind Pool cover?
Only wind and hail, for property in the state's legally defined coastal area when owners can't buy it in the regular market.
How do I apply to the South Carolina Wind Pool?
Through a licensed South Carolina agent or broker.
How much notice before a South Carolina homeowners non-renewal?
At least 60 days before expiration or the anniversary date, stating the precise reason, under S.C. Code §38-75-740.
Does South Carolina set a deadline to pay home claims?
No fixed number of days. Insurers must act reasonably promptly, and unreasonable delay can be an unfair claim practice.
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.