Atlantic Canada knows hurricanes all too well. From Juan in 2003 to Fiona in 2022, these storms have left behind downed power lines, damaged homes, and communities struggling to recover. And now, with Tropical Storm Erin projected to potentially become the first major hurricane of the 2025 season — and possibly make its way toward Nova Scotia or Newfoundland — early preparation has never been more important.
Recently, I sat down with our very own Angie Marchbank to discuss practical hurricane preparation strategies that every homeowner in Atlantic Canada should consider. Angie emphasized that the key to hurricane safety is a blend of understanding your insurance coverage and taking proactive steps to protect your home, your family, and your finances.
Below are seven essential hurricane preparation tips, along with lessons learned from real Atlantic Canadians who weathered Hurricane Fiona.
1) Understand Your Homeowners Insurance Policy
Many homeowners assume they know what’s in their insurance policy — but hurricane coverage can be more complex than you think.
Angie recommends sitting down with your broker to review:
What’s covered (structure, detached buildings, contents)
What’s excluded (flooding, certain wind damage, gradual wear)
Your deductible amounts and how they apply in a windstorm event
During Fiona, many homeowners were surprised to learn that certain damages required additional endorsements. Don’t wait until a claim to find out — review your policy now.
2) Know Your Above-Ground Water and Sewer Backup Coverage
While storm surge and flooding from rising water often aren’t covered under standard homeowners policies, above-ground water (rain entering from damaged roofs or windows) and sewer backup coverage can be added in many cases.
These endorsements can mean the difference between a covered claim and thousands of dollars out of pocket. If your home is in a low-lying area or has an older sewer line, talk to your broker about adding this protection.
3) Understand Your Windstorm Coverage
Windstorm coverage typically protects against damage from hurricane-force winds — but the definition can vary by insurer.
If you’re unsure how your policy defines “windstorm” or whether your deductible changes during named storms, ask your broker today.
4) Protect Your Property Before a Hurricane Hits
Small steps taken before a storm can prevent large losses:
Trim weak branches and remove dead trees
Secure outdoor furniture, planters, and BBQs
Check your roof for loose shingles
Install storm shutters or pre-cut plywood for windows
Move valuables and electronics away from windows and basements
In Fiona’s aftermath, many homeowners told us that pre-storm yard cleanup saved them from costly projectile damage.
5) Have a Home Inventory and Emergency Kit Ready
A home inventory — photos, receipts, and serial numbers for your belongings — speeds up claims processing and ensures you get full value for damaged items. Store it digitally in the cloud or on a USB drive kept in a safe place.
Also, prepare a 72-hour emergency kit that includes:
Drinking water & non-perishable food
Flashlights, batteries, and a portable phone charger
Medications, baby items, and pet food
Cash (ATMs may be down)
Battery-powered radio to receive updates
6) Stay Safe During the Storm
If authorities issue an evacuation order, follow it. If you remain home:
Stay indoors, away from windows
Avoid using candles — opt for flashlights
Don’t go outside during the “eye” of the storm; winds will return from the opposite direction
Keep listening to local updates via radio or weather apps
As Angie says, “No property is worth risking your life for. Safety first, always.”
7) After the Storm: Responding Safely and Quickly
a) Assess and Document Damage – Once it’s safe, take photos and videos of all damage before starting cleanup.
b) Contact Your Insurance Company – Call your broker as soon as possible. Higgins Insurance can guide you through the claims process and connect you with emergency repair services.
c) Mitigate Further Damage – Cover broken windows, tarp damaged roofs, and shut off water or electricity if needed. Many policies require you to take reasonable steps to prevent further loss.
Hurricanes in Atlantic Canada: A Growing Threat
As outlined in our Hurricane Preparedness in Atlantic Canada: What to Do Before, During, and After guide, the Atlantic hurricane season runs from June to November, and storms are arriving earlier and with more intensity. Fiona taught us that even inland communities can experience hurricane-level damage.
Now, with Tropical Storm Erin developing earlier than usual — and potentially strengthening to a Category 3 — meteorologists are warning Nova Scotians and Newfoundlanders to be ready. While its path is uncertain, the time to prepare is before watches and warnings are issued.
Real Stories: How Higgins Insurance Helped During Fiona
Michelle and Joey Stonehouse – North River, Nova Scotia
“During the aftermath of Hurricane Fiona, Bob was there when we needed him to help navigate making a claim. He continuously checked in on us and always offered a helping hand. We’ve been with Higgins for over 10 years because they always find us the best deals and put their customers first.”
Donna Bigger – Nova Scotia
“If it wasn’t for Bob, my house would have been destroyed in Fiona. Even without phone service, he got someone over to tarp my house within days, preventing further damage. He explained my policy in detail and connected me with the right companies to help with my repairs. I highly recommend Higgins Insurance to anyone.”
These are just two examples of how preparation, quick action, and a trusted insurance partner can make all the difference after a major storm.
The Bottom Line
Hurricanes are a fact of life in Atlantic Canada — but panic doesn’t have to be. With the right coverage, a clear plan, and timely action, you can reduce your risk, protect your property, and safeguard your family.
At Higgins Insurance, we’re here to help you understand your policy, prepare for the unexpected, and recover quickly when storms strike.
📞 Contact us today to review your coverage and make sure you’re hurricane-ready.