What Insurance Do Narragansett Homeowners Typically Carry?
Homes in Narragansett come with some of the most unique insurance needs in Rhode Island. Between coastal exposure, storm risk, and high-value properties, coverage here is often more comprehensive than inland areas.
For homeowners in Narragansett, insurance isn’t just about basic protection — it’s about covering specific coastal risks and higher rebuild costs.
Homeowners Insurance (Core Coverage)
Every Narragansett homeowner starts with a standard homeowners insurance policy, which typically includes:
Dwelling coverage (structure of the home)
Other structures (garages, decks)
Personal property
Liability protection
Loss of use (temporary housing if displaced)
This covers common risks like fire, theft, and certain storm damage.
Flood Insurance (Essential for Coastal Areas)
One of the biggest differences in Narragansett is the need for flood insurance.
Standard homeowners insurance does NOT cover flood damage
Coastal properties are more exposed to storm surge and rising water
Flood insurance is typically purchased as a separate policy
Even homes not directly on the water may still face flood risk during major storms.
Wind and Hurricane Coverage
Narragansett homes are more exposed to coastal storms and high winds.
Homeowners often review:
Windstorm coverage within their policy
Hurricane deductibles (which may differ from standard deductibles)
Rhode Island insurers are required to clearly outline hurricane deductibles due to the financial impact they can have .
Replacement Cost Coverage (Higher Priority)
Coastal homes — especially in areas like Narragansett — often have:
Higher property values
Custom construction
Increased rebuilding costs
Because of this, many homeowners prioritize:
Full replacement cost coverage
Extended or guaranteed replacement cost options
This helps ensure the home can be rebuilt even if costs rise.
Water Backup Coverage
Even beyond flooding, water-related risks are common.
Homeowners often add protection for:
Sewer backups
Sump pump failures
Drain overflows
These are not always included in standard policies but are especially relevant in coastal and older properties.
Liability Coverage (Often Increased)
With:
Vacation homes
Short-term rentals
Frequent guests
Narragansett homeowners often carry higher liability limits.
This helps protect against:
Guest injuries
Property damage claims
Legal costs
Many also add umbrella insurance for additional protection.
Coverage for Coastal Property Risks
Because Narragansett is a coastal market, some homeowners also consider:
Specialized coastal insurance carriers
Coverage tailored for storm exposure
Certain insurers even focus specifically on coastal homes due to higher hurricane and storm risks .
Coverage for Older or Seasonal Homes
Narragansett has a mix of:
Older homes
Seasonal or second homes
This creates additional needs like:
Ordinance or law coverage (for code upgrades)
Vacancy or seasonal-use considerations
Insurance may be structured differently depending on how the home is used.
Why Coverage Is Different in Narragansett
Compared to inland areas, Narragansett homeowners face:
Greater exposure to storms and coastal weather
Higher likelihood of flood-related risk
More expensive rebuild costs
Seasonal occupancy considerations
Because of this, coverage is typically more customized and layered.
Building the Right Coverage Plan
For Narragansett homeowners, the goal isn’t just having insurance — it’s having coastal-ready coverage.
A well-structured policy often includes:
Strong homeowners (dwelling) coverage
Separate flood insurance
Water and storm-related protections
Higher liability limits
Protecting a Coastal Investment
Owning a home in Narragansett comes with incredible benefits — but also unique risks. The right insurance setup helps protect not just the property, but the long-term investment behind it.
For coastal Rhode Island homeowners, reviewing and customizing coverage is one of the most important steps in staying fully protected.
