It can. Carriers look at the age of the roof, wiring and plumbing, and at what it would cost to rebuild with similar materials. Updates help, so let us know what has been replaced. We’ll also check that your limit reflects true rebuilding cost.

Probably. Many homeowners policies exclude or limit short-term rentals. A policy written for that use covers the building, your furnishings, your liability to guests and lost rental income after a covered loss.

Yes. Carriers rate second homes differently, and some limit coverage when a home is unoccupied for a long stretch. Tell us how often you are there and whether someone checks on the house while you are away.

You file two claims, one on the wind coverage and one on the flood policy, and each pays for its own share of the damage. Photos of your home and belongings taken before the storm make it easier to sort out.