We are moving into hurricane season and we to remind you of how important it is to have the right kind of insurance and to be prepared.
Hurricanes bring two big problems: water and wind. Depending on where you live, you may need to buy these separate policies in order to cover hurricane damage:
- Flood insurance: Most homeowner’s insurance policy will cover floods, including water from a storm surge. To get coverage, you’ll need flood insurance.
- Windstorm insurance: Homeowners insurance policies in some hurricane-prone states won’t pay for windstorm damage. If you live in one of these states and want coverage, buy a separate windstorm insurance policy.
Here are some basic emergency preparedness suggestions to include in your planning process.
- Create a family communication plan for children and adults to have. Put copies in children’s backpack and in your wallet or purse.
- Flood insurance is not covered under your homeowner’s policy. While hurricanes are generally covered, if a flood ensues later, it may not be covered. You will need a separate flood policy.
- Install hurricane shutters.
- Prune all trees around your home.
- Keep a mobile emergency kit in your car.
- Monitor radio and local TV stations for evacuation orders. Act without delay to avoid traffic.
- Assemble/replenish disaster supplies kit: FEMA recommends three days of food and water for each member of the household, including pets. You can assemble a kit yourself, or purchase a pre-assembled kit online or from many local stores. Store items in your household designated safe location.
- Discuss with your family the safe locations for shelter in the places you are likely to spend time: home, school, work, place of worship, etc.
- Find out your vulnerability to flooding, wind, and storm surges, and whether you live in a mandatory evacuation zone. Visit the FloodSmart.gov website to see updated flood maps.
With an independent insurance agent, you have choices. Independent agents are not tied to any one insurance company. One of the advantages of using an independent agent is that he or she works to satisfy your needs. You are using an expert for an important financial decision.
An independent agent has several companies that he or she can approach to get you the best coverage at the best price. And your independent agent will know the companies with the most efficient claims departments to recover your losses as quickly as possible.
When you buy insurance, you want an advocate who will properly assess the risks you face and give you an objective analysis of the marketplace, because it’s up to you to make the final choice.