Question 1

Do I really need flood insurance if I don't live in a flood zone?

Accepted Answer

Yes, especially in New Bern. Hurricane Florence proved that flood maps don't tell the whole story—many homes outside designated flood zones experienced catastrophic flooding. Your standard homeowners insurance won't cover flood damage regardless of where you live. With New Bern's location at the confluence of two rivers and proximity to the coast, everyone should seriously consider flood insurance. Remember, there's a 30-day waiting period, so you can't buy it once a storm is approaching.

Question 2

What are the new North Carolina auto insurance requirements?

Accepted Answer

As of July 1, 2025, North Carolina requires minimum coverage of 50/100/50: $50,000 per person for bodily injury, $100,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $50,000 for property damage. All policies must also include underinsured motorist coverage at the same limits. These requirements only apply to policies issued or renewed on or after July 1, 2025.

Question 3

Why are home insurance rates increasing so much in New Bern?

Accepted Answer

Coastal properties in North Carolina are facing significant rate increases due to repeated hurricane losses and soaring reinsurance costs. Statewide, rates increased 7.5% in 2025 with another 7.5% increase in 2026. Coastal counties like Craven County are seeing even higher increases—some beach territories are experiencing 16% or more. These increases reflect the real cost of insuring coastal properties in an era of more frequent severe weather events.

Question 4

What's a hurricane deductible and how does it work?

Accepted Answer

A hurricane deductible is a separate, higher deductible that applies specifically to hurricane damage. Unlike your regular deductible (which might be $1,000 or $2,500), hurricane deductibles are typically 1% to 10% of your home's insured value. If your home is insured for $300,000 with a 2% hurricane deductible, you'll pay the first $6,000 of hurricane damage out of pocket. This deductible only applies when damage is caused by a named hurricane.

Question 5

Does my homeowners insurance cover wind damage from hurricanes?

Accepted Answer

Not necessarily. Many standard homeowners policies in coastal areas like New Bern exclude windstorm coverage. You may need to purchase separate wind coverage, potentially through the North Carolina Insurance Underwriting Association (NCIUA) if regular insurers won't provide it. Check your policy carefully and ask your agent specifically about wind and hurricane coverage—don't assume you're covered.

Question 6

How much does the average homeowner pay for insurance in New Bern?

Accepted Answer

While statewide averages in North Carolina are around $2,941 per year for homeowners insurance, coastal properties like those in New Bern typically pay more due to hurricane and flood risks. Your actual cost depends on your home's value, age, construction type, proximity to water, claims history, and the coverage limits you choose. The best way to get an accurate estimate is to request quotes from local agents familiar with Craven County properties.

Insurance Agents in New Bern, North Carolina (NC)

Insurance agencies serving New Bern

Auto & Home Insurance Agency, Inc.

Flatlands Jessup Insurance Group, LLC

Insurance Agents in New Bern, North Carolina (NC)

Insurance agencies serving New Bern

Auto & Home Insurance Agency, Inc.

Flatlands Jessup Insurance Group, LLC

GG Insurance Agency Inc

Henderson Insurance Group

Herring's Insurance & Financial Services, Corp.

The Gavigan Agency - Insurance & Financial Services

Insurance Guides for New Bern

Insurance in New Bern, North Carolina: Your Complete Guide

Home Insurance in New Bern, North Carolina

Auto Insurance in New Bern, North Carolina

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