Louisiana is home to more than just Mardi Gras and some great Universities, it’s also home to floods, alligators and the very real potential for frozen pipes when the temperatures drop. To properly protect your home, understand the insurance laws in Louisiana.
Property in the state is defined as your home and its contents. Property insurance will cover these items against loss or damage. It’s recommended that you have a complete listing of what you own and what assets would need to be replaced in the event of a catastrophe. Ideally you should have pictures of the inside and outside of your home as confirmation.
Liability insurance is the coverage that protects you if someone is hurt or injured while on your property.
Basic coverage in Louisiana will protect your home from basic perils including fire, lightning, windstorms, hail, theft and vandalism. It will not provide coverage in the event of flood or burst pipes.
Broad coverage expands on the basic coverage and also covers your home against snow or ice damage and damages that can result from home appliances. While snow damage is unlikely in this warmer state, the potential for ice damage is high, especially in the northern areas of the state. Building collapse is also covered with this insurance.
Special coverage takes care of all perils with the exception earthquake and flood. This coverage does cost more but will provide you with much needed protection that can provide you with invaluable peace of mind.
Flood insurance is absolutely recommended throughout Louisiana. This is especially important if you live along the Mississippi River or near New Orleans in general. The levies are not fool-proof, and only flood insurance will protect you. If your carrier does not offer flood insurance you can contact the National Flood Insurance Program for policy information.
A hurricane deductible is also highly recommended. If the flooding results from levy failure or a hurricane, the insurance companies can use this tiny loophole to deny coverage. Protect yourself and your home thoroughly by asking to have this coverage written into your policy.
Water pipes can burst and cause serious damage in your home. This is especially a problem in Louisiana because the pipes are not buried as deep as they are in the North and the insulation as they come into the home might be lacking. It is recommended that you leave a faucet dripping anytime there is a freeze warning. To ensure that your home is protected from this potential issue, talk to your agent and confirm that you have the proper coverage.
