Name: Chabert Insurance: The Ehrhardt Agency
Address: 240 Dalwill Dr, Suite B, Mandeville, LA, 70471
Telephone: 504-326-6526

First-Time Homebuyer’s Guide to Home Insurance in Louisiana

Posted on April 13, 2026April 13, 2026 by Katelyn Ehrhardt

Buying your first home is one of the most exciting milestones of your life. It is also one of the most overwhelming — and in Louisiana, that process comes with a layer of complexity that first-time buyers in other states simply do not face. Between a challenging insurance market, mandatory flood coverage requirements, hurricane season, and a carrier landscape unlike anywhere else in the country, navigating home insurance as a new Louisiana homeowner can feel like learning a foreign language overnight.

At Chabert Insurance The Ehrhardt Agency, we work with first-time homebuyers across the Greater New Orleans area and the Northshore every single week. We know the questions you are asking, the surprises that catch buyers off guard, and the mistakes that are easy to avoid if you know what to look for. This guide is designed to walk you through everything you need to know — before you close, before you sign, and before you make a decision you will regret.

Why Home Insurance in Louisiana Is Different

Let’s start with the honest truth: homeowners insurance in Louisiana is more expensive, more complicated, and harder to get than in most other states. The average cost of homeowners insurance in Louisiana is approximately $2,835 per year — about 32% higher than the national average. For many first-time buyers, this comes as a significant shock, especially when the insurance cost is not factored into their original budget.

The reasons behind these higher costs are deeply rooted in Louisiana’s geography and history. The state sits in the direct path of Gulf Coast hurricanes, its coastal land is disappearing at one of the fastest rates in the world, much of the Greater New Orleans area sits below sea level, and the state has experienced more catastrophic flood losses than almost anywhere else in the country. Since hurricanes Katrina and Ida, dozens of national insurance carriers have reduced their presence in Louisiana or exited the market entirely, leaving fewer options and higher prices for homeowners.

Understanding this context before you start shopping for a home will help you budget accurately, ask better questions, and make smarter decisions throughout the homebuying process.

When Do You Need Home Insurance — and Why Your Lender Requires It?

If you are financing your home purchase with a mortgage — which most first-time buyers do — your lender will require you to have an active homeowners insurance policy in place before you can close. This is not optional. Without proof of insurance, your closing will not happen.

The reason lenders require this is straightforward: your home is the collateral for your loan. If your home burns down or is destroyed by a hurricane, the lender wants to know that the asset securing their investment is protected. The insurance policy protects both you and the bank.

Most lenders will require you to provide a declarations page — a one-page summary of your policy details — before closing. Your lender will also typically require that they be listed on the policy as an Additional Insured or Mortgagee, meaning they receive notice if your policy lapses or is cancelled. This is standard practice and nothing to be alarmed by.

Start Early Do not wait until the week before closing to start shopping for home insurance. In Louisiana’s complicated market, getting quotes, comparing options, and binding a policy can take longer than you expect. We recommend starting the insurance conversation at least 30-45 days before your expected closing date — ideally as soon as your offer is accepted.

Understanding What a Homeowners Policy Actually Covers

A standard homeowners insurance policy is made up of several coverage components. Understanding each one — and how it applies specifically to Louisiana — is essential for making sure your policy is truly protecting you.

Coverage Type	What It Covers	Louisiana Importance
Dwelling (Coverage A)	The structure of your home — walls, roof, floors, built-in appliances.	Critical — rebuild costs in Louisiana are high due to storm damage demand.
Other Structures (Coverage B)	Detached garage, fence, shed, carport.	Often overlooked but important for Louisiana properties.
Personal Property (Coverage C)	Furniture, electronics, clothing, and belongings inside the home.	Make sure limits are adequate — contents claims are very common after storms.
Loss of Use (Coverage D)	Pays for hotel, meals, and living expenses if your home is uninhabitable.	Essential in Louisiana — hurricane and flood damage can displace families for months.
Liability (Coverage E)	Protects you if someone is injured on your property.	Important for pools, trampolines, and high-traffic properties.
Medical Payments (Coverage F)	Pays medical bills for guests injured on your property regardless of fault.	Provides a layer of protection before liability claims escalate.

The Louisiana-Specific Coverages Every First-Time Buyer Needs to Understand

Beyond the standard components of a homeowners policy, there are several Louisiana-specific coverage issues that every first-time buyer needs to understand before purchasing a home in our market.

1. Flood Insurance — The Most Critical Conversation

Your homeowners policy does not cover flood damage. This is one of the most important things to understand as a first-time buyer in Louisiana. Flood insurance is an entirely separate policy that must be purchased independently — either through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or through a private flood carrier.

If your home is in a high-risk flood zone (Zone A, AE, V, or VE) and you have a federally backed mortgage, flood insurance is legally required. But even if your home is in a lower-risk Zone X designation, we strongly recommend purchasing flood coverage. Nationally, about 25% of all flood insurance claims come from properties outside of high-risk zones — and in a state like Louisiana, that risk is even more real.

There is also a critical timing issue: NFIP flood policies have a standard 30-day waiting period before they go into effect. If you wait until a storm is approaching or named, it is too late. Get your flood policy in place at closing — or ideally, before.

2. Wind and Hail Deductibles — Know Your Number Before You Close

In Louisiana, most homeowners policies include a separate, higher deductible that applies specifically to wind and hail damage — the type of damage most commonly associated with hurricanes. This deductible is typically expressed as a percentage of your home’s insured value rather than a flat dollar amount.

On a $300,000 home, a 2% wind deductible means you would pay $6,000 out of pocket before insurance kicks in for wind damage. A 5% deductible means $15,000. As a first-time buyer, make sure you know exactly what your wind deductible is before you bind the policy — and make sure you have sufficient savings to cover it if a storm hits.

3. Replacement Cost vs. Actual Cash Value

When your home or belongings are damaged, how your policy pays out makes an enormous difference. There are two primary methods:

Replacement Cost Value (RCV) — Pays what it actually costs to repair or replace the damaged item at today’s prices. This is the coverage you want.
Actual Cash Value (ACV) — Pays the depreciated value of the item, accounting for age and wear. On a 15-year-old roof, this could pay out a fraction of what a new roof actually costs.

In Louisiana, where construction costs have risen significantly since recent storms, the gap between ACV and RCV payouts can be staggering. Always confirm that your dwelling coverage is written on a Replacement Cost basis — and ask specifically whether your personal property coverage is RCV or ACV as well.

4. Ordinance or Law Coverage

Louisiana has significant building code requirements that have been updated substantially since older homes were constructed. If your home is damaged and local codes require you to bring the entire structure up to current standards during the repair — not just fix the damaged portion — Ordinance or Law coverage pays for that additional cost. Without it, you could face tens of thousands of dollars in unexpected expenses that your standard policy will not cover. This is especially important for buyers purchasing older homes in New Orleans, Metairie, and other historic neighborhoods.

5. Loss of Use Coverage — More Important Than You Think

If your home becomes uninhabitable after a covered event — whether it is a hurricane, fire, or major water damage — Loss of Use coverage pays for your temporary living expenses. This includes hotel stays, restaurant meals, and other costs above what you normally spend. In Louisiana, where major storm damage can displace families for months or even years, having adequate Loss of Use limits is not a luxury — it is a necessity. Review your policy’s Loss of Use limits carefully and make sure they reflect the realistic cost of alternative housing in your area.

How Much Home Insurance Do You Actually Need?

One of the most common mistakes first-time buyers make is insuring their home for the purchase price rather than the rebuild cost. These are two very different numbers.

The purchase price of a home includes the value of the land — which cannot be destroyed in a storm. What your insurance needs to cover is the cost to completely rebuild the structure from the ground up if it were totally destroyed. In Louisiana, rebuild costs have increased significantly due to material and labor costs driven by post-storm demand across the Gulf Coast.

Your insurance agent can help you run a replacement cost estimator to determine the appropriate dwelling coverage amount for your specific home. Do not simply accept the minimum coverage your lender requires — that number is based on the outstanding loan balance, not the actual cost to rebuild your home. Make sure the two align or that you are fully aware of the gap.

The Louisiana Insurance Market — What First-Time Buyers Need to Know

Louisiana’s homeowners insurance market is unlike any other in the country. Since hurricanes Katrina, Gustav, Ike, Laura, Delta, Zeta, and Ida, the carrier landscape has been fundamentally reshaped. Many national carriers have significantly reduced their appetite for new Louisiana business, exited the state entirely, or non-renewed large portions of their books.

This means that as a first-time buyer, you may find that your options are more limited — and more expensive — than you expected. It also means that working with an independent insurance agent who knows the Louisiana market is more valuable than ever. Unlike a captive agent who can only offer products from one carrier, an independent agent like Chabert Insurance The Ehrhardt Agency shops across multiple carriers — including admitted carriers, surplus lines markets, and specialty programs — to find the best available option for your specific home.

There are also things you can do before you purchase a home to improve your insurability and reduce your costs:

Ask about the home’s claims history — a property with multiple prior claims may be difficult or expensive to insure.
Check the condition of the roof — most carriers will not write a policy on a roof over 20 years old, and some have stricter cutoffs.
Ask about the home’s elevation certificate if it is in or near a flood zone — this document can significantly affect your flood insurance premium.
Look into the Fortified Home program — a Louisiana-specific construction standard that can qualify your home for premium discounts.

First-Time Homebuyer Programs in Louisiana — Don’t Overlook These

Louisiana has several programs specifically designed to help first-time buyers — and some of them can help offset your insurance and closing costs. Here are the most important ones to know about:

Louisiana Housing Corporation (LHC) Programs

The LHC offers several mortgage programs for first-time buyers, including the MRB Home program for buyers earning 80% or less of the area median income, which offers below-market interest rates and between 5-9% of the mortgage amount in down payment and closing cost assistance. The MRB Assisted program serves buyers in targeted areas earning up to 140% of AMI.

New Orleans Direct Homebuyer Assistance Program

The City of New Orleans offers eligible first-time buyers up to $55,000 as a forgivable soft second mortgage for down payment assistance, plus $5,000 in closing cost assistance. The program is income-limited (80% of AMI for the area) and the home must be priced at $324,000 or below. The assistance is forgivable after 10 years.

Jefferson Parish First-Time Homebuyer Assistance

Jefferson Parish offers eligible first-time buyers up to $50,000 (or $60,000 in Kenner) as a forgivable loan for down payment and closing cost assistance. Like the New Orleans program, income limits and purchase price caps apply.

These programs can make a meaningful difference in your ability to afford both your down payment and your first year of insurance premiums. Ask your lender and your insurance agent about all available options early in the process.

Your Home Insurance Checklist Before Closing

Here is a simple checklist every first-time buyer in Louisiana should work through before closing day:

Start shopping for homeowners insurance at least 30-45 days before your expected closing date.
Work with an independent agent who can compare multiple carriers — not just one company.
Confirm your dwelling coverage is based on replacement cost, not purchase price.
Ask specifically about your wind and hail deductible — and make sure you understand the dollar amount.
Purchase a flood insurance policy at closing — even if you are not in a high-risk zone.
Ask about Ordinance or Law coverage, especially if buying an older home.
Review your Loss of Use coverage limits — make sure they are adequate for Louisiana housing costs.
Get a copy of the home’s prior claims history (your agent can help with this).
Ask about the roof age and condition before closing — this affects your coverage options and premium.
If the home is in or near a flood zone, ask for an elevation certificate.
Confirm your lender is listed as the Mortgagee on your homeowners policy before closing.
Keep a copy of your declarations page in a safe place — digital and physical.

A Note from Chabert Insurance We know the Louisiana insurance market is frustrating — especially for first-time buyers who are already managing so many moving parts. Our job is to take that burden off your plate. We will shop your coverage, explain your options in plain language, make sure your policy meets your lender’s requirements, and make sure you are genuinely protected — not just checking a box. Call or text us at 504-326-6526. We are here to help.

Buying Your First Home in Louisiana? Let Chabert Insurance The Ehrhardt Agency walk you through your options and make sure you are properly protected from day one. We serve first-time buyers across New Orleans, Metairie, Mandeville, Covington, Slidell, and all of Southeast Louisiana. 📞 Call or Text: 504-326-6526 🌐 Visit: protectedbychabert.com 📍 Mandeville & New Orleans, Louisiana

FEMA Flood Zones in New Orleans — What Homeowners Need to Know

Posted on April 3, 2026April 3, 2026 by Katelyn Ehrhardt

If you own a home in the Greater New Orleans area or on the Northshore, there is a number attached to your property that affects your mortgage, your insurance premium, and your financial exposure to one of the most common disasters in Louisiana. That number — or more accurately, that letter — is your FEMA flood zone designation.

And yet, most Louisiana homeowners have no idea what their flood zone actually means, how it was determined, or why it matters so much. At Chabert Insurance The Ehrhardt Agency, we talk about flood zones with clients every single day. So let’s clear it up once and for all.

What Is a FEMA Flood Map?

FEMA’s Flood Insurance Rate Maps — known as FIRMs — are the official government maps that show the flood risk for every piece of land in the country. These maps are created using detailed engineering studies, historical flood data, elevation surveys, storm modeling, and drainage analysis.

The maps divide land into flood zones based on the statistical probability of flooding in any given year. Your flood zone designation tells lenders, insurers, and local governments how likely your property is to flood — and at what level.

In Southeast Louisiana, FEMA flood maps cover Orleans Parish, Jefferson Parish, St. Tammany Parish, St. Charles Parish, St. Bernard Parish, and the surrounding areas. The maps are updated periodically as new data becomes available, new levees are built, and development patterns change across the region.

You can look up your property’s official flood zone designation at FEMA’s Flood Map Service Center at msc.fema.gov — just enter your address and your Flood Insurance Rate Map will pull up.

Breaking Down the Flood Zone Designations

Here is what each flood zone designation actually means for homeowners in the New Orleans metro area and Northshore:

Zone	What It Means	Flood Insurance Required?
Zone AE	High-risk zone. Has a 1% annual chance of flooding (the ‘100-year flood’). Base Flood Elevations are established.	Yes — required for federally backed mortgages
Zone A	High-risk zone. 1% annual chance of flooding but no Base Flood Elevation established.	Yes — required for federally backed mortgages
Zone VE / V	Coastal high-risk zone subject to wave action in addition to flooding. Most severe designation.	Yes — required for federally backed mortgages
Zone X (Shaded)	Moderate risk. 0.2% annual chance of flooding (the ‘500-year flood’). Between the 100-year and 500-year floodplain.	Not required — but strongly recommended
Zone X (Unshaded)	Minimal risk area. Outside the 500-year floodplain. Considered low risk.	Not required — but still possible to flood

The ‘100-Year Flood’ — The Most Misunderstood Term in Insurance

When you hear that a property is in the ‘100-year floodplain,’ most people assume it means the area only floods once every hundred years. That is one of the most dangerous misconceptions in the insurance world — and in Louisiana, it can cost you everything.

The 100-year flood designation does not mean a flood happens once a century. It means there is a 1% chance of a flood of that magnitude occurring in any given year. That may sound small, but consider this: over the course of a 30-year mortgage, a home in the 100-year floodplain has roughly a 26% chance of experiencing a flood event.

In Louisiana, where major storms arrive with regularity and drainage infrastructure is constantly tested, the statistical risk is even more meaningful than those numbers suggest. Orleans and Jefferson Parishes have among the highest concentrations of repetitive flood loss properties in the entire country — properties that have flooded not once, not twice, but multiple times.

Being Outside a Flood Zone Does Not Mean You Are Safe

This is perhaps the most important point we make to homeowners across the Northshore and Greater New Orleans area: being outside a high-risk flood zone does not mean your home cannot flood. It simply means FEMA has determined the statistical probability is lower.

The data backs this up clearly. Nationally, roughly 25% of all flood insurance claims are filed by properties located outside of high-risk flood zones. In a state like Louisiana — where heavy rainfall events, overwhelmed drainage systems, and hurricane storm surge routinely affect neighborhoods well outside mapped floodplains — that number is especially relevant.

Think about the flooding that occurred across the Northshore during the August 2016 flood event. Tens of thousands of homes in St. Tammany Parish and surrounding areas flooded — many of them in Zone X, where flood insurance was not required and many homeowners did not have it. The damage was catastrophic precisely because so many people assumed they were safe.

The Hard Truth Being in Zone X or outside a mapped flood zone is not a guarantee that your home will not flood. It is a statistical designation based on modeling — not a promise. Every home in Southeast Louisiana has some level of flood risk. The only question is whether you are financially prepared if it happens.

How Flood Zone Designations Affect Your Insurance and Mortgage

Your flood zone designation has direct, real-world financial consequences. Here is how it affects you:

Federally Backed Mortgages

If your home is in a high-risk flood zone (Zone A, AE, V, or VE) and you have a mortgage backed by a federal lender — which includes most conventional mortgages — you are legally required to carry flood insurance. Your lender will verify this at closing and every year thereafter. If you let your flood policy lapse, your lender can force-place coverage on your behalf, which is almost always far more expensive than purchasing it yourself.

Insurance Premiums

Your flood zone designation is one of the primary factors that determines your flood insurance premium. Properties in Zone AE or VE will typically carry higher premiums than those in Zone X. However, since FEMA introduced Risk Rating 2.0 in 2021 and 2022, flood insurance pricing has shifted to reflect each property’s individual risk characteristics — including elevation, distance from water, and foundation type — rather than relying solely on flood zone designation.

This means that some Zone X properties have seen premium increases under the new system, while some Zone AE properties have seen decreases, depending on their specific risk profile.

Home Sales and Purchases

When you buy or sell a home in Louisiana, the flood zone designation plays a significant role. Buyers in high-risk zones must factor the cost of mandatory flood insurance into their monthly housing budget. Sellers in high-risk zones are required to disclose the property’s flood zone status. And when a property is remapped from a lower-risk zone to a higher-risk zone, it can affect the home’s marketability and value.

What Are FEMA Map Updates — and Why Should You Pay Attention?

FEMA periodically revises flood maps to account for new data, infrastructure changes, and updated storm modeling. In recent years, Southeast Louisiana has seen significant map revisions affecting Orleans, Jefferson, St. Tammany, and St. Charles Parishes — with expanded AE zones in some areas and revised V zones near Lake Pontchartrain reflecting updated wave and surge modeling.

When a map update places your property in a higher-risk zone, it can trigger mandatory flood insurance requirements and affect your premium. When a map update moves your property to a lower-risk zone, you may have the opportunity to reduce your premium or adjust your coverage.

The key takeaway: your flood zone designation today may not be your flood zone designation in five years. Staying informed about map updates in your parish is an important part of managing your risk and your insurance costs as a Louisiana homeowner.

NFIP vs. Private Flood Insurance — Which Is Right for You?

Most flood insurance in Louisiana is purchased through the National Flood Insurance Program — the federal government-backed program administered by FEMA. NFIP policies are available to homeowners, renters, and business owners in participating communities and offer up to $250,000 in building coverage and $100,000 in contents coverage.

However, private flood insurance has grown significantly in recent years and offers some important advantages worth discussing with your agent:

Higher coverage limits — private policies can often exceed the NFIP’s $250,000 building cap, which is important for higher-value homes.
Additional coverages — some private policies include loss of use coverage and other features not available through the NFIP.
Competitive pricing — for lower-risk properties, private flood insurance can sometimes be less expensive than an NFIP policy under Risk Rating 2.0.
Shorter waiting periods — some private carriers offer shorter waiting periods than the NFIP’s standard 30 days.

As an independent insurance agency, Chabert Insurance The Ehrhardt Agency can help you compare both NFIP and private flood insurance options to find the right fit for your home and budget.

How to Look Up Your Flood Zone — and What to Do Next

Looking up your flood zone is simple. Here is how:

Go to msc.fema.gov — FEMA’s Flood Map Service Center.
Enter your property address in the search bar.
Your Flood Insurance Rate Map will appear, showing your zone designation.
You can also contact your parish floodplain administrator, or simply call us and we can help walk you through what it means.

Once you know your zone, the next step is making sure your coverage is appropriate. If you are in a high-risk zone, your flood coverage limits should reflect the actual cost to rebuild your home — not just meet the mortgage lender’s minimum requirement. If you are in Zone X, we strongly encourage you to consider a flood policy anyway, given Louisiana’s track record with flooding events that go well beyond what any map can predict.

Not Sure What Your Flood Zone Means for Your Coverage? We help homeowners across New Orleans, Metairie, Mandeville, Covington, and the entire Southeast Louisiana area understand their flood risk and make sure their coverage is right. Let’s talk before the next storm season. 📞 Call or Text: 504-326-6526 🌐 Visit: protectedbychabert.com 📍 Mandeville & New Orleans, Louisiana

Personal Liability Gaps That Homeowners and Auto Policies Cannot Cover

Posted on March 31, 2026March 17, 2026 by admin

Many residents in Mandeville, LA rely on their homeowners and auto insurance policies to protect them from life’s unexpected events. While these policies offer valuable coverage, they also contain limits that may leave families exposed during serious liability incidents. Chabert Insurance of the Northshore helps homeowners understand how personal liability gaps occur and why an umbrella insurance policy may offer additional peace of mind.

Why Liability Gaps Occur in Standard Home and Auto Policies

Homeowners and auto insurance include liability protection, but these limits are often designed for everyday situations rather than severe or unusual events. If a claim exceeds those limits, families may face out-of-pocket costs. Liability gaps can appear during major accidents, injuries involving guests, or events where property damage extends beyond the expected scope. Reviewing insurance questions about liability limits helps Mandeville residents understand where additional protection may be needed.

Common Situations That Fall Outside Standard Liability Coverage

Certain activities or accidents may not be fully covered under basic policies. Dog-related injuries, incidents involving recreational equipment, or accidents caused by a family member outside the home can create unexpected exposure. Chabert Insurance of the Northshore works with Mandeville homeowners to compare insurance quotes that address these scenarios directly, helping families identify where coverage gaps may exist.

How High-Cost Liability Events Create Financial Risk

In some situations, liability claims can grow quickly. Medical bills, legal fees, or damage to multiple vehicles may exceed the limits of traditional home or auto policies. Without additional protection, families may be responsible for covering the excess portion of those expenses. Understanding how umbrella insurance supports high-value claims helps residents create a more complete liability plan.

Insurance Questions to Help Identify Possible Coverage Gaps

Would a major accident exceed the liability limits in your current policies
Do you participate in activities that increase your liability exposure
Have you added new drivers or pets who may change your risk profile
Have you reviewed insurance quotes for umbrella coverage recently

These questions help homeowners evaluate whether their existing coverage aligns with their lifestyle and potential risks.

How Chabert Insurance of the Northshore Supports Mandeville Residents

Chabert Insurance of the Northshore provides guidance to Mandeville families who want to protect themselves from unexpected liability events. The agency helps residents review their current policies, understand coverage gaps, and explore options for stronger protection. To learn more about umbrella insurance and comprehensive liability support, visit the official Chabert Insurance website and discover solutions designed for today’s homeowners.

Is Your Home Ready for Hurricane Season in Louisiana?

Posted on March 27, 2026April 3, 2026 by Katelyn Ehrhardt

Living in Southeast Louisiana means understanding one unavoidable reality: hurricane season is not a matter of if, but when. From New Orleans to Metairie, from Mandeville to the rest of the Northshore, every homeowner in our region needs to ask one critical question before June 1st rolls around each year — is my home truly protected?

At Chabert Insurance The Ehrhardt Agency, we work with homeowners across Jefferson Parish, Orleans Parish, St. Tammany Parish, and beyond to make sure their coverage is ready before a storm ever forms in the Gulf. In this post, we’re breaking down exactly what you need to review — and why waiting until a storm is named is already too late.

Why Hurricane Season Hits Differently in Southeast Louisiana
Louisiana consistently ranks as one of the most hurricane-vulnerable states in the country — and Southeast Louisiana sits right in the crosshairs. The combination of coastal geography, low elevation, aging infrastructure, and our proximity to the Gulf of Mexico means that even a storm that doesn’t make a direct hit can cause catastrophic flooding, wind damage, and extended power outages.

Since Hurricane Katrina in 2005, the Louisiana homeowners insurance market has transformed dramatically. Many national carriers have reduced their footprint or exited the state entirely, leaving homeowners with fewer options and — in many cases — policies they don’t fully understand. That’s exactly where working with a local, independent insurance agent makes all the difference.

As an independent agency, Chabert Insurance The Ehrhardt Agency works with multiple carriers to find the right coverage for your specific home, neighborhood, and risk profile — whether you’re in a high-risk flood zone in New Orleans East, a newer subdivision in Mandeville, or a historic home in Metairie.

The Most Common Coverage Gaps We See in Louisiana Homeowners Policies
After reviewing hundreds of policies across the Greater New Orleans area, here are the gaps we see most often — and the ones that cost homeowners the most when a storm hits:

1. Flood Insurance Is NOT Included in Your Homeowners Policy
This is the most critical thing every Louisiana homeowner must understand. Your standard homeowners insurance policy does not cover flood damage — period. Flood insurance must be purchased separately, either through the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) or through a private flood carrier.

Many homeowners in Mandeville, Covington, and other Northshore communities assume they don’t need flood insurance because they’re “not in a flood zone.” The reality is that over 20% of flood claims come from properties outside of high-risk flood zones. The question isn’t whether you’re in a flood zone — it’s whether you can afford to rebuild without flood coverage.

2. Actual Cash Value vs. Replacement Cost
If your policy pays Actual Cash Value (ACV) instead of Replacement Cost Value (RCV), you could receive significantly less than it actually costs to rebuild after a storm. ACV accounts for depreciation — meaning a 15-year-old roof might only pay out a fraction of what a new roof costs today. With construction costs in Louisiana at historic highs since recent storms, this gap can be devastating.

3. Ordinance or Law Coverage
If your home is damaged and local building codes have changed since it was built, you may be required to bring the entire structure up to current code when rebuilding — not just repair the damaged portion. In older neighborhoods across New Orleans and Metairie, this can add tens of thousands of dollars to a repair bill that your standard policy won’t cover without Ordinance or Law coverage.

4. Wind & Hail Deductibles
Many Louisiana homeowners policies have a separate, higher deductible that applies specifically to wind and hail claims — often 2% to 5% of your home’s insured value. On a $300,000 home, that’s a $6,000 to $15,000 out-of-pocket expense before insurance kicks in. Do you know what your wind deductible is? If you’re not sure, that’s a conversation we need to have before hurricane season.

Your Pre-Hurricane Season Coverage Checklist
Here’s what every homeowner in the New Orleans metro area and Northshore should review before June 1st:

Review your homeowners policy dwelling limit — does it reflect what it would actually cost to rebuild your home today?
Confirm whether your policy pays Replacement Cost or Actual Cash Value for your dwelling and personal property
Check your wind and hail deductible — know your number before a storm forms
Review your flood insurance coverage — do you have it? Is the coverage amount adequate?
Ask about Ordinance or Law coverage — especially important for homes built before 2000
Check your loss of use / additional living expenses coverage — where will you live if your home is uninhabitable after a storm?
Review your personal property coverage — do you have a home inventory?
Ask about any exclusions specific to your policy or carrier

Don’t Wait Until a Storm Is Named
Insurance carriers routinely place moratoriums on new policies and coverage changes when a named storm enters the Gulf of Mexico. Once a storm is named, it may be too late to add flood coverage, increase your dwelling limit, or make any meaningful changes to your policy. The time to review your coverage is now — not when you’re watching the Weather Channel tracking a Category 3 in the Gulf.

Why Louisiana Homeowners Choose an Independent Agent
Unlike captive agents who can only offer one company’s products, independent agents like Chabert Insurance The Ehrhardt Agency work with multiple carriers to find the right fit for your home and budget. In a market as complex and carrier-depleted as Louisiana’s, this flexibility is invaluable.

We understand the unique challenges of insuring homes in Southeast Louisiana — the coastal exposure, the flood zones, the aging housing stock, the carrier appetite issues. We work with admitted carriers, non-admitted markets, surplus lines carriers, and specialty programs to make sure our clients have options.

Whether you’re a first-time homebuyer in Mandeville trying to understand what coverage you need, a longtime New Orleans homeowner whose carrier just non-renewed your policy, or a real estate investor in Metairie looking for dwelling coverage on rental properties — we’re here to help.

Serving Homeowners Across Southeast Louisiana
Chabert Insurance The Ehrhardt Agency proudly serves homeowners across the Greater New Orleans metro area and the Northshore, including:

New Orleans (Orleans Parish)
Metairie & Kenner (Jefferson Parish)
Mandeville, Covington & Madisonville (St. Tammany Parish)
Slidell & Lacombe (St. Tammany Parish)
Laplace & Reserve (St. John the Baptist Parish)
Gonzales & Prairieville (Ascension Parish)
Surrounding Southeast Louisiana communities

Ready to Review Your Coverage Before Hurricane Season? Don’t wait until a storm is named. Contact Chabert Insurance The Ehrhardt Agency today for a free policy review. We’ll make sure your home is protected before hurricane season gets into full swing. 📞 Call or Text: 504-326-6526 🌐 Visit: protectedbychabert.com 📍 Serving Mandeville & New Orleans, Louisiana

How to Protect Your Boat During Off‑Season or Long‑Term Storage in Louisiana

Posted on February 27, 2026February 20, 2026 by admin

Many boat owners in Mandeville, LA enjoy time on the water throughout the year, but off season storage is still an important part of maintaining a vessel. Louisiana’s warm climate, high humidity, and storm potential can create challenges for boats that remain idle for long periods. Understanding how to store your boat safely and how insurance applies during storage will help protect your investment. Many local boaters rely on Chabert Insurance of the Northshore for guidance when preparing their vessels for extended downtime.

Why Proper Storage Matters in Louisiana

Even when not in use, boats are exposed to risks such as moisture buildup, mold, corrosion, pests, and unexpected weather events. Louisiana’s humidity and seasonal storms can accelerate wear and tear on both interior and exterior components. Boat owners in Mandeville can reduce these risks by selecting the right storage environment and taking preventative steps before the off season begins.

Choosing Between Indoor and Outdoor Storage

Indoor storage offers the most protection by shielding boats from sunlight, moisture, and wind driven rain. Outdoor storage, while more common, requires strong covers, proper ventilation, and secure tie downs to minimize exposure. Understanding your storage environment helps determine what type of protection and insurance coverage you may need.

Preparing Your Boat for Long Term Storage

Basic preparation steps include draining water systems, checking seals, cleaning the vessel, and removing perishable items. Fuel system treatment, battery maintenance, and proper ventilation can help prevent damage during storage. Taking time to protect electronics and engine components ensures your boat is ready to return to the water when the season starts.

How Boat Insurance Applies During Storage

Many boat owners are surprised to learn that their insurance continues to protect the vessel even when it is not in use. Comprehensive coverage typically applies to risks such as theft, vandalism, storm damage, and fire while the boat is stored. Asking insurance questions about deductibles, storage requirements, and coverage limits can help you understand how your policy responds during the off season.

Protecting Your Investment Year Round

Proper storage is one of the best ways to keep your boat in excellent condition and avoid unexpected repairs. Boat owners in Mandeville, LA can improve long term protection by preparing their vessel thoroughly, choosing a safe storage location, and reviewing coverage options with Chabert Insurance of the Northshore. With the right plan in place, you can feel confident knowing your boat is protected throughout every season.

Flood Insurance Exclusions: Are You Fully Protected in Mandeville, LA?

Posted on January 30, 2026January 19, 2026 by admin

Flood insurance is a vital safety net for homeowners in Mandeville, LA, where heavy rains and rising waters are all too common. But while flood insurance offers critical protection, it’s important to understand what it doesn’t cover. Knowing the exclusions in your policy can help you avoid surprises when disaster strikes.

What Flood Insurance Doesn’t Cover

Flood insurance policies, including those backed by the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), have specific exclusions. For example, damage caused by negligence—such as failing to maintain your property—is not covered. Additionally, outdoor property like landscaping, fences, and swimming pools are excluded. If your car is damaged in a flood, you’ll need separate auto insurance with comprehensive coverage to handle those costs.

Basements and Mold: Common Coverage Gaps

Basement damage is another area where flood insurance falls short. While structural elements like walls and floors may be covered, personal belongings stored in the basement often are not. Mold damage resulting from a flood is also excluded unless it’s directly caused by the event and addressed promptly. These gaps can leave homeowners in Mandeville scrambling to cover repair costs.

How to Protect Yourself

Understanding your policy is key to avoiding surprises. At Chabert Insurance of the Northshore, we help Mandeville homeowners review their flood insurance coverage and explore supplemental options to fill in the gaps. From private flood insurance to additional riders, there are ways to ensure you’re fully protected.

Don’t wait until the next storm to find out what your flood insurance doesn’t cover. Contact Chabert Insurance of the Northshore today to review your policy and make sure you’re prepared for whatever comes your way!

What Mandeville Residents Should Know About Indoor Theft Coverage

Posted on December 26, 2025December 3, 2025 by admin

Home is where you keep your most valuable possessions, from electronics to family heirlooms. Unfortunately, theft can happen even in quiet communities like Mandeville. That’s why understanding how your home insurance protects indoor property is so important. Indoor theft coverage ensures you’re not left empty-handed if the unexpected happens.

What Is Indoor Theft Coverage?

Indoor theft coverage is a part of most standard home insurance policies. It reimburses you for stolen items inside your home, such as furniture, jewelry, electronics, and other personal belongings. However, coverage limits can vary depending on your policy. For example, high-value items like artwork or collectibles may require additional coverage to ensure they’re fully protected.

How Does Indoor Theft Coverage Work?

If a theft occurs, your home insurance policy can help cover the cost of replacing stolen items. To file a claim, you’ll need to provide proof of ownership, such as receipts or photos, and a police report documenting the incident. Chabert Insurance of the Northshore works with Mandeville homeowners to make sure their policies include the right level of protection for their belongings.

Tips for Protecting Your Indoor Property

Keep an inventory of your valuables, including photos and receipts.
Install security measures like cameras and alarm systems to deter theft.
Review your home insurance policy regularly to ensure coverage limits meet your needs.

Get the Right Coverage for Your Home

Indoor theft coverage is an essential part of protecting your home and belongings. Chabert Insurance of the Northshore helps Mandeville residents find policies that fit their needs. Contact us today to learn more about your options. Visit Chabert Insurance of the Northshore to get started!

What Are the Top Risks for Boaters in Mandeville, and How Can Insurance Help?

Posted on November 28, 2025November 19, 2025 by admin

Life on the water in Mandeville, LA, is hard to beat. With Lake Pontchartrain right in your backyard, boating is practically a way of life here. But before you set sail, it’s worth thinking about the risks that come with owning a boat, and how insurance can help you stay protected.

What Could Go Wrong on the Water?

There is always going to be the chance that something happens. Boating isn’t always smooth sailing. Here are some of the most common risks Mandeville boaters face:

Storms: Louisiana’s weather can turn on a dime, especially during hurricane season. High winds and heavy rain can wreak havoc on your boat.
Accidents: Lake Pontchartrain is a popular spot, which means crowded waters. Collisions with other boats or docks are more common than you might think.
Theft: Boats and their equipment are valuable, making them a tempting target for thieves.
Liability Issues: If your boat damages someone else’s property or causes an injury, you could be on the hook for costly repairs or medical bills.

How Does Boat Insurance Help?

Here’s the good news: boat insurance is designed to cover these risks and more. Here’s how it works:

Storm Damage: If your boat is damaged during a storm, comprehensive coverage can help pay for repairs.
Collision Coverage: Whether you hit another boat or a dock, collision coverage helps cover the costs.
Theft Protection: If your boat or equipment is stolen, insurance can help you recover your losses.
Liability Coverage: This covers legal fees, medical expenses, or property damage if you’re found responsible for an accident.

Why Mandeville Boaters Need Insurance

Boating in Mandeville is all about enjoying the water, but it’s also about being prepared. With the right insurance, you can focus on the fun without worrying about what might go wrong. Whether you’re fishing, cruising, or just relaxing on Lake Pontchartrain, boat insurance gives you the confidence to enjoy every moment.

Let’s Get You Covered

At Chabert Insurance of the Northshore, we know what Mandeville boaters need. From storm protection to liability coverage, we’ll help you find the right policy for your lifestyle. Don’t wait until something goes wrong—get the coverage you need today.

Visit Chabert Insurance of the Northshore to learn more about boat insurance options for Mandeville residents. Let’s keep your adventures safe and stress-free!

Why Umbrella Insurance Is a Smart Choice for Mandeville Families and Homeowners

Posted on October 31, 2025October 16, 2025 by admin

Life in Mandeville is full of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors, host family gatherings, and build a comfortable home. However, with these opportunities come potential risks that could lead to unexpected financial challenges. Umbrella insurance is a valuable tool for families and homeowners who want to protect their assets and ensure they are covered in situations where standard insurance policies may fall short.

What Is Umbrella Insurance?

Umbrella insurance is a type of liability coverage that goes beyond the limits of your existing policies, such as home or auto insurance. It provides additional protection for legal fees, medical expenses, and settlement costs if you are found liable in a lawsuit. For Mandeville families and homeowners, this extra layer of coverage can be a financial lifesaver in the event of an unexpected claim.

Why Mandeville Families Need Umbrella Insurance

Mandeville is known for its welcoming neighborhoods, outdoor activities, and family-friendly environment. These qualities make it a wonderful place to live, but they also come with unique liability risks. Here are some common scenarios where umbrella insurance can help:

Accidents on Your Property: If a guest is injured during a backyard barbecue or pool party, your homeowner’s insurance may not cover all the medical expenses or legal fees. Umbrella insurance can step in to cover the remaining costs.
Car Accidents: If you are involved in a major accident and the damages exceed your auto insurance limits, umbrella insurance can help cover the additional expenses.
Defamation Claims: In today’s digital age, social media interactions can sometimes lead to defamation lawsuits. Umbrella insurance can provide coverage for legal fees and settlements in these cases.

How Umbrella Insurance Benefits Homeowners

For homeowners in Mandeville, umbrella insurance is an affordable way to protect your property and assets. It is especially beneficial for those with high-value homes, savings, or other assets that could be at risk in a liability claim. Umbrella insurance ensures that you are not left paying out of pocket for expenses that exceed your primary policy limits.

Chabert Insurance of the Northshore specializes in helping Mandeville families and homeowners find the right umbrella insurance policy for their needs. Visit Chabert Insurance of the Northshore to learn more about how we can help you stay protected.

Protect Your Family and Your Future

Umbrella insurance is more than just an extra policy—it is a safeguard for your financial future. Whether you are hosting events, driving on Louisiana’s roads, or simply enjoying life in Mandeville, this coverage ensures you are prepared for the unexpected. Contact Chabert Insurance of the Northshore today to explore your options and find the perfect umbrella insurance policy for your family.

Personal Injury Protection (PIP) in Louisiana: How It Benefits Mandeville Drivers

Posted on September 27, 2025September 27, 2025 by admin

Accidents can happen when you least expect them, leaving drivers and passengers with mounting medical bills and lost wages. Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage is designed to provide financial relief in these situations, ensuring you and your passengers are protected regardless of who is at fault. For drivers in Louisiana, including those navigating the streets of Mandeville, PIP coverage is an essential part of a comprehensive auto insurance policy.

What Is Personal Injury Protection (PIP)?

PIP is a type of auto insurance coverage that helps pay for medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs resulting from an accident. Unlike liability coverage, which only pays for damages to others, PIP focuses on protecting you and your passengers. This makes it a valuable addition to any policy, especially for drivers who want to ensure their financial security after an accident.

Chabert Insurance of the Northshore works with drivers across Louisiana, including Mandeville, to provide policies that include PIP coverage tailored to their needs. Whether you’re commuting to work or enjoying a drive along Lake Pontchartrain, having PIP coverage ensures you’re prepared for the unexpected.

How PIP Benefits Drivers

Louisiana’s roads can be unpredictable, and Mandeville is no exception. From heavy traffic on major thoroughfares to unexpected hazards on rural roads, accidents can occur in a variety of situations. PIP coverage offers several key benefits for drivers:

Medical Expenses: PIP helps cover hospital bills, doctor visits, and rehabilitation costs for injuries sustained in an accident.
Lost Wages: If you’re unable to work due to injuries, PIP can provide compensation for lost income.
Funeral Costs: In the unfortunate event of a fatal accident, PIP can help cover funeral expenses.
Passenger Protection: PIP extends coverage to passengers in your vehicle, ensuring everyone is protected.

These benefits make PIP an invaluable addition to auto insurance policies, offering financial security and peace of mind for drivers in Mandeville and beyond.

Why PIP Is Especially Important in Louisiana

Louisiana’s roads are known for their unique challenges, including frequent rainstorms, narrow rural routes, and busy urban intersections. These factors contribute to a higher risk of accidents, making PIP coverage even more important for drivers in areas like Mandeville.

Additionally, Louisiana operates under a “fault” system for auto insurance, meaning the at-fault driver’s insurance is responsible for covering damages. However, disputes over fault can delay compensation, leaving drivers to cover their own expenses in the meantime. PIP eliminates this concern by providing immediate coverage, regardless of fault.

How to Add PIP to Your Auto Insurance Policy

Adding PIP coverage to your auto insurance policy is a straightforward process. When working with Chabert Insurance of the Northshore, drivers can discuss their specific needs with experienced agents who understand the local driving conditions. Whether you’re navigating Mandeville’s scenic routes or busy streets, having PIP coverage ensures you’re prepared for the unexpected.

It’s also important to review your policy regularly to ensure your coverage limits align with your financial needs. Chabert Insurance can help you make adjustments as needed, so you’re always protected.

Stay Protected on Louisiana’s Roads

Personal Injury Protection is a vital component of auto insurance, offering financial security and peace of mind in the event of an accident. By including PIP in your policy, you can focus on enjoying the drive, knowing you’re covered no matter what happens.

Ready to learn more about PIP coverage? Visit Chabert Insurance of the Northshore today to explore your options and ensure you’re fully protected on Mandeville’s roads.

Chabert Insurance: The Ehrhardt Agency