6 Major Reasons to Consider Storm Insurance
With yet another hurricane on a collision course with American homes, homeowner’s insurance is at the forefront of everyone’s mind. Storms are capable of immense damage and, in many circumstances, the complete destruction of a home, so it’s normal to worry whether or not your existing homeowner’s insurance policy will be enough when it’s most needed.
Many homeowner’s insurance policies do cover storm damage, or they may separately cover flood damage and wind damage, the two most common types of storm damage. Ask your agent or simply review your coverage plan for more information on your specific plan, and in the meantime, be sure to prepare your home. Minimizing damages and making the claims process easier is simple. Start by making a list of your valuable possessions, taking lots of pictures, and storing your documents in a safe container, then make your way down this list to make sure you’re protected.
1. Install Hurricane Shutters
Most home insurance policies require the policyholder to install hurricane shutters to all windows. Without these shutters, homeowners may not be entitled the the full benefits of their insurance. Alternatively, homeowners can have storm-rated impact glass installed, but at least one of these options is required.
2. Is an Overflowing Pool “Flooding”?
An overflowing swimming pool can cause just as much flood damage as a tropical storm, but will your flood insurance cover damages? In most situations, no, but it’s best to check with your agent and know for sure – if your pool floods and damages a neighbor’s property, for instance, your claim may be valid.
3. Does Homeowner’s Insurance Cover your Car?
Many people worry that if your vehicle is damaged while on your property, you’ll be forced to make a homeowner’s insurance claim. The vehicle is one of your possessions, after all, but is this really necessary? Probably not. Your auto insurance policy protects your car no matter where it goes – even if it’s parked inside your garage.
4. Know Your Policy’s Limitations
After a storm, it may seem impossible to rebuild, and there may be out-of-pocket costs to consider. Luckily, homeowner’s policies have two forms of additional coverage that protect you from outrageous out-of-pocket rebuilding costs. One prevents new building code changes from costing you additional out-of-pocket funds, and the other protects homeowners from surging labor and resource costs following extreme weather.
5. Make Changes While You Can
The National Weather Service isn’t always the first to identify extreme weather risks, and until they issue their official hurricane warning, you can make changes to your policy. Use this window of opportunity to purchase additional coverage, but be wary of the 30-day waiting period that comes with changes to flood insurance.
6. Who Is Responsible?
In the event of a natural disaster, it can often be difficult to determine which party’s insurance will pay for damages. Give us a call or click today for more information – we have experts standing by, ready to answer your questions.
Interested in California homeowner’s insurance? Visit our website or call today! Our team of dedicated professionals will help you every step of the way.
