Louisiana has experienced massive destruction of property due to floods and a series of hurricanes. The city of New Orleans can specifically be remembered as the worst hit by Hurricane Katrina in the spring of 2006 and Hurricane Rita in September 2005. Other areas affected by storms include Shreveport and Morgan cities. Homeowners insurance is very important in Louisiana if the storm outlook for the next 10 years says anything.

Types of Homeowners Insurance in Louisiana

• The Basic Form. It protects the home and personal property e.g. furniture, and personal belongings. It covers damages due to fire or lightening, removal of property endangered by the peril and comprehensive liability.
• Broad Form. It covers similar items as basic form but with additional coverage against building collapse, accidental discharge of water by heating/air conditioning systems or bursting of hot water systems.
• Special Form. It covers against all risks with a few exceptions such as floods.
• Tenants Broad Form. This is a type of broad form policy that for personal property rented out but not the dwelling of the owner.
• Comprehensive Form. It’s the most expensive form because it covers all losses both for the dwellings and personal property.
• Special Condominium Form. It’s designed for condominium unit owners and provides the basic coverage as the tenants form. But provides special cover needed by homeowners to protect the interiors of the house.
• Valuable Items Coverage. It covers against damage or theft of valuables within the home such as jewelry and antiques.

Points to Note When Buying Homeowners Insurance in Louisiana:

• Check with the insurance agent to find out if the policy is hurricane deductible. The higher the amount of deductible the more and will pay if the storm occurs. Typical deductible ranges from US$250 to US$500.
• Decide how much coverage you need so as to avoid instances of over or under insurance.
• Most Homeowners Insurance in Louisiana do not offer flood insurance. It’s therefore important to take coverage with the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP). Although it offers insurance to a limit of US$250,000 for the house and US$100,000 for its contents, it’s better than none at all.