In late September 2024, Hurricane Helene made its way through the southeastern United States, and while Asheville is not typically in the direct path of tropical systems, this time was different. The storm brought unprecedented rainfall, strong winds, flash flooding, and widespread property damage throughout the city and surrounding areas.

For many Asheville homeowners and business owners, Hurricane Helene was the most damaging weather event in recent memory. As public adjusters, we’ve worked with property owners across the region to assess damage, prepare insurance claims, and ensure they receive fair compensation for their losses. If you were impacted by Helene, here’s what you need to know.

Widespread Damage in Buncombe County

Hurricane Helene caused severe flooding in Asheville, particularly in low-lying areas such as Biltmore Village and the River Arts District. Major rivers—including the French Broad and the Swannanoa—rose rapidly and overflowed, damaging hundreds of homes and commercial buildings.

Many properties suffered:

• Roof damage from falling trees or high winds

• Flooding in basements and first floors

• Mold and water damage

• Structural issues due to erosion or foundation movement

• Power outages that lasted for days

Local officials estimated that thousands of structures sustained damage, from minor leaks to total loss. Unfortunately, not all homeowners had flood insurance, leaving many unsure how to proceed.

What Insurance Covers—and What It Doesn’t

It’s important to understand what your property insurance does and doesn’t cover in a disaster like Hurricane Helene.

• Standard homeowners insurance generally covers wind damage, falling trees, and rain that enters through damaged parts of the structure.

• Flooding, however, is typically not covered unless you have a separate flood insurance policy.

• Additional living expenses (ALE)—such as temporary housing and meals—are often covered if your home is uninhabitable due to a covered loss.

If you're unsure what’s covered in your policy, that’s where a public adjuster comes in.

How a Public Adjuster Can Help After Hurricane Helene

A public adjuster works on your behalf—not the insurance company—to:

• Inspect and document all damages

• Review your insurance policy and determine coverage

• Prepare and file a detailed insurance claim

• Negotiate with your insurance company to maximize your settlement

Unlike the insurance adjuster assigned by your insurer, a public adjuster is independent and works only for you. Especially in a widespread disaster like Helene, where thousands of claims are being filed at once, having someone who can represent your interests is crucial.

Challenges Facing Property Owners in Asheville

After Hurricane Helene, many homeowners faced delays in filing or processing claims. Insurance companies were overwhelmed, local contractors were fully booked, and some adjusters were brought in from out of state without full knowledge of the area.

Common problems we’ve seen include:

• Underpayment of claims

• Delays in receiving payment

• Denied coverage due to unclear policy language

• Improper repair estimates

• Disputes over flood vs. wind damage

In these cases, a public adjuster can step in to push back and fight for a fair resolution.

Tips for Homeowners Affected by Hurricane Helene

If your home was damaged by the hurricane, here are a few basic steps you should take:

1. Document Everything
   Take photos and videos of the damage before you begin cleaning or making repairs.

2. Keep All Receipts
   Track expenses related to temporary housing, repairs, cleanup, or damaged belongings.

3. Do Not Sign Anything Too Quickly
   Be cautious of signing any settlement offers or repair contracts without a full understanding of your policy rights.

4. Contact a Public Adjuster Early
   The sooner you bring in a public adjuster, the better they can help organize your claim and avoid costly mistakes.

Moving Forward After the Storm

Asheville is a strong and resilient community. Recovery after Hurricane Helene will take time, but homeowners are not alone. Whether you suffered minor water intrusion or major structural damage, you have options—and you have the right to a fair insurance settlement.

If you’re struggling with your claim or don’t feel you're being treated fairly by your insurer, we can help. As licensed public adjusters, we offer free claim reviews and work on a no-recovery, no-fee basis. Our only goal is to make sure you get the full compensation you deserve.