Question 1

Do I need flood insurance if my home isn't in a high-risk flood zone?

Accepted Answer

While flood insurance isn't legally required outside Special Flood Hazard Areas, it's still worth considering for Savannah homes. The city's low elevation, flat terrain, and tidal influence mean flooding can occur even in lower-risk zones during heavy rainfall or tropical storms. About 25% of flood claims come from moderate-to-low risk areas, and flood insurance is typically much more affordable in these zones than in high-risk areas.

Question 2

Why is home insurance so much more expensive in Savannah than other Georgia cities?

Accepted Answer

Savannah's coastal location drives up insurance costs significantly. The city sits directly in the path of Atlantic hurricanes and tropical storms, creating higher risk for wind and water damage. Combined with low elevation, proximity to tidal waters, and the Savannah River, these factors make claims more likely and more expensive for insurers, who pass those costs to homeowners through higher premiums.

Question 3

What special insurance requirements apply to historic district homes?

Accepted Answer

Historic homes in Savannah typically require guaranteed replacement cost coverage rather than actual cash value policies, since period-appropriate materials and restoration methods are expensive. Insurers will closely evaluate your home's electrical, plumbing, and structural systems, sometimes requiring upgrades. You'll also need to ensure your coverage limits account for the cost of meeting Historic District Board of Review requirements if you need to rebuild or make major repairs.

Question 4

Does my homeowners insurance cover hurricane damage?

Accepted Answer

Standard homeowners insurance covers wind damage from hurricanes, but not flooding—even if the flood is caused by a hurricane. You'll need separate flood insurance for storm surge or rainfall flooding. Also, most coastal Georgia policies have a separate hurricane deductible (usually a percentage of your dwelling coverage) that's higher than your standard deductible, so budget accordingly for out-of-pocket costs after a named storm.

Question 5

How can I lower my home insurance premium in Savannah?

Accepted Answer

Start by improving your credit score, which has the biggest impact on premiums in Georgia. Shop multiple insurers since quotes can vary by thousands of dollars for identical coverage. Ask about discounts for impact-resistant roofing, storm shutters, security systems, newer roofs, and updated electrical or plumbing. Bundling home and auto insurance typically saves 15-25%, and increasing your deductible can lower your premium if you have adequate emergency savings.

Question 6

How do I find out what flood zone my Savannah home is in?

Accepted Answer

Visit SAGIS.org and use their "Find My Flood Zone" tool to determine your property's flood zone designation. You can also contact the City of Savannah's Floodplain Management office or check your mortgage documents, which should identify your flood zone if you have a federally-backed loan. Knowing your zone helps you understand whether flood insurance is mandatory and what your premiums might be.

Insurance Agents in Savannah, Georgia (GA)

Insurance agencies serving Savannah

Beach Insurance Group

Brennan & Co., LLC

Insurance Agents in Savannah, Georgia (GA)

Insurance agencies serving Savannah

Beach Insurance Group

Brennan & Co., LLC

Davis Accounting, Tax Services And Insurance

Executive Southern Insurance

Executive Southern Insurance

J.L. Herring And Associates

Kingery & Company

Longevity Capital Insurance

Morris & Templeton Insurance

Remer Lane Insurance

Insurance Guides for Savannah

Home Insurance in Savannah

Car Insurance Costs in Savannah

Auto Insurance in Savannah

Insurance Guide for Savannah

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