Product Documentation

Hurricane - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What AI feature generations support Hurricane Vulnerability Score?

Hurricane Vulnerability Score is only available on Gen6 AI Features. The request must include systemVersionPrefix=gen6.

Which feature classes can include Hurricane Vulnerability Score data?

If allowed by the calling account's packs, the response will contain both 'Roof' and 'Building Lifecycle' feature classes. Both can support the Hurricane Vulnerability Score, but only one will be used per building. The default is for the score to be attached to the Roof feature class. However, if the building's roof is severely damaged or destroyed, the score will instead be attached to the Building Lifecycle class.

What is the difference between hurricaneVulnerabilityScore and hurricaneVulnerabilityProbability?

The hurricaneVulnerabilityProbability is the raw continuous output from the machine learning model, representing the predicted likelihood of damage. The hurricaneVulnerabilityScore is this probability binned into discrete 1-5 categories for easier interpretation and implementation. The discrete score retains nearly all the predictive information of the continuous probability.

How should I use the hurricaneRateFactor?

The hurricaneRateFactor is a rate adjustment factor filed with regulatory authorities. For example, a rate factor of 1.24 for a score of 2 means an insurer can charge 24% more premium based on this vulnerability score. These factors are approved for use in rating in specific states (see above Regulatory Approvals section).

Why does the score require Defensible Space data?

Defensible Space coverage (vegetation and debris in zones around the building) is a significant predictor of hurricane wind damage. The defensibleSpaceWeightedCoverage feature captures risk from nearby objects that can become projectiles or cause additional structural damage during high winds.

Can I get just the score without the modelInputFeatures?

Currently, the response includes the modelInputFeatures object to provide transparency into which factors influenced the score. This is currently not a configurable parameter.

How often should I refresh Hurricane Vulnerability Scores?

Scores should be refreshed when new imagery is captured or when significant property improvements are made (such as roof replacement or tree removal). Since the score is based on observable property characteristics, changes to those characteristics will affect the score.

Does wind speed affect the score?

No, the Hurricane Vulnerability Score is independent of wind speed and location. It measures only the property's susceptibility to damage. The same building will have the same vulnerability score regardless of whether it's in a high-hazard or low-hazard area. However, validation shows the score's predictive power increases at higher wind speeds (Cat 3-4).

Why might two similar-looking buildings have different scores?

Even buildings that appear similar may have different vulnerability scores due to factors like:

Roof condition (staining, wear, missing shingles)
Roof material and shape differences
Tree overhang presence
Defensible space coverage variations
Patching, rusting, or other maintenance indicators

The modelInputFeatures field shows exactly which factors differ between buildings.

Can the score be used for flood risk?

No. The Hurricane Vulnerability Score measures only wind damage vulnerability. It does not apply to flood damage, storm surge, or water intrusion, and is not designed to perform well on flood-related claims.

Is there always a one-to-one relationship between Roof and Building Lifecycle?

No. Sometimes a building may have many roofs, and sometimes a single damaged roof will become multiple separate roof areas. Therefore there is not always a one-to-one relationship. However, a one-to-one relationship is the most common.

How does the score compare to other catastrophe model vulnerability ratings?

Traditional catastrophe models typically use four primary building characteristics (occupancy type, construction material, number of stories, year built). The Hurricane Vulnerability Score goes beyond these basics by incorporating observable conditions like roof health, maintenance, and surrounding environment. This provides more granular risk differentiation, especially for properties with similar primary characteristics.

Can Perils be retrieved for any AOI?

It is strongly recommended that the AOI aligns with a property/parcel boundary and that the parcelMode=true parameter is used. This will provide perils for a property/parcel. However, it is possible to provide any AOI.