Stay safe and prepared!
Hi, this is Jake Holehouse from HH Insurance with crucial information about Hurricane Helene forming in the Gulf of Mexico. A Category 3 hurricane is projected to hit the Big Bend area between Thursday and Friday this week, potentially affecting policyholders. I recommend following specific meteorologists for updates and taking necessary precautions, including documenting your property and understanding insurance coverage. Please watch for detailed instructions on homeowners, boat, and commercial insurance, and emergency restoration resources.
Where you can track the storms progression:
Denis Phillips
Mikes Weather PageÂ
National hurricane CenterÂ
Florida Disaster CenterÂ
Recommended Restoration Services:
Belfor Restoration:
Contact: Mike Strickland
Phone Number: 813-955-2705
Email: Mike.Strickland@us.belfor.com
Vetcor Restoration:
Phone: 844-838-2671
Online form: https://vetcorservices.com/contact-us/
What should you do as an Insured?
With hurricane season in full swing, it’s crucial to ensure that you’re fully prepared, not just by securing your home, but also by knowing what steps to take when it comes to your insurance. Each type of insurance policy comes with specific considerations when preparing for a storm and filing a claim. Below, we’ve broken down what you need to know depending on the type of policy you have.
Homeowners Insurance (HO3, HO6 & DP3 Policies)
As a homeowner, your primary concern is the structure of your home and your personal belongings. Here are some key steps you should take:
- Review Your Coverage
Make sure your policy covers hurricane-related damage, including wind and water damage. - Document Your Belongings
Create an updated inventory of your possessions, including videos, photos, and receipts. This will help speed up the claim process if your home or belongings are damaged. - Storm-Proof Your Home
Take steps to minimize potential damage, such as installing storm shutters, trimming trees, and securing outdoor furniture. - Know Your Deductible
Many homeowners’ policies in hurricane-prone areas have separate hurricane deductibles. Be aware of how much you’ll be responsible for before your coverage kicks in. - Emergency Contacts and documentsÂ
Email yourself your insurance documents, any videos you took of your belongings, and your agent’s contact info for easy access after the storm. If you need to file a claim, do it as soon as possible.
Flood Insurance
Standard homeowners’ policies do not cover flood damage, so having a separate flood insurance policy is critical if you live in a flood zone or a hurricane-prone area.
- Prepare Your Home
Elevate electrical appliances, secure valuable items, and create a plan to protect important documents from water damage. - Understand Waiting Periods
Most flood insurance policies have a 30-day waiting period before coverage takes effect. Don’t wait until a storm is approaching to purchase a policy. - Evacuation Plans
If you’re in an area prone to flooding, have a safe evacuation route and a plan for where you will stay if you need to leave your home.
Auto Insurance
Your vehicle is also at risk during a hurricane. Comprehensive auto insurance covers damage from natural disasters, including hurricanes, but it’s important to take the following steps:
- Check Your Coverage
Ensure that you have comprehensive coverage, which is what protects your vehicle from hurricane damage, including flooding, falling debris, and theft. - Move Your Vehicle to Higher Ground
If you can, park your vehicle in a garage or another safe location. Avoid parking under trees or power lines. - Document Pre-Storm Condition
Take photos or videos of your vehicle before the storm hits. This will provide evidence of its condition if you need to file a claim for damage afterward. - Keep Your Vehicle Protected
Store important documents, including your insurance information, in a waterproof container in your vehicle or bring them inside.
Boat Insurance
If you own a boat, securing it properly is essential before a storm hits, and knowing your policy’s coverage is just as important.
- Follow your Hurricane Plan or Named Storm Plan
Check your policy for a hurricane or Named storm plan. These are generally submitted by the insured at the time of binding. Be sure to follow this plane to ensure coverage. - Review Your Policy
Some policies require boats to be relocated under certain conditions, while others may include storm protection or haul-out reimbursement. Understand what your policy requires and covers. - Photograph Your Boat
Like with your home and vehicle, document your boat’s pre-storm condition with photos or videos to make the claims process smoother if necessary.
Business Insurance
If you own a business, protecting your commercial property and assets is just as crucial as securing your home.
- Back-Up Important Data
Ensure that all digital records and important documents are backed up in the cloud or off-site in case of damage to your physical location. - Protect Your Physical Location
Board up windows, secure outdoor items, and take steps to minimize interior damage from water intrusion. - Keep Detailed Records
Maintain records of business income, expenses, and damage estimates. These will be crucial if you need to file a claim.
Preparing for hurricane season isn’t just about protecting your property—it’s about knowing how your insurance will work when you need it most. Whether it’s your home, car, boat, or business, having the right coverage and knowing the next steps will help you recover more quickly after the storm.
Feel free to contact us for a policy review or if you have any questions about your coverage before the storm hits!
Learn More About the Claims Process Below As Jake takes a deep dive into a few real life claims with a Top Underwriter:
Initial Steps After Damage
- Documentation: Photograph and video record the damage, and keep all receipts and paperwork.
- Policy Review: Familiarize yourself with your insurer, agent, and policy details.
- Emergency Services: Consider emergency services for significant damage. Professionals can help determine if you need to file a claim.
Adjusting and Repair Process
- Replacement Cost vs. Actual Cash Value: Understand the difference between these terms. Replacement cost covers new items, while actual cash value accounts for depreciation.
- Selecting Restoration Companies: Use reputable, well-reviewed companies. Consult your agent for recommendations.
Role of Adjusters and Contractors
- Field Adjuster: Inspects and documents damage on-site.
- Inside Adjuster: Reviews the field adjuster’s report and ensures policy coverage details are accurate.
- Contractor: Reviews the estimate and works on repairs, coordinating with adjusters if needed.
Handling Disputes
- Effective Communication: Address concerns with adjusters and agents before involving public adjusters or attorneys.
- Careful Contracting: Read contracts thoroughly and avoid hasty decisions.
Common Claim Issues
- Deductibles: Determine if the repair costs exceed your deductible before filing a claim.
- Policy Upgrades: Policy typically covers similar quality replacements; upgrades like better countertops are usually out-of-pocket expenses.
- Dispute Resolution: If disagreements arise, communicate with your adjuster or agent to resolve them efficiently.
Final Thoughts
- Always consult your adjuster or agent for specific claim questions.
- Proper education and understanding of your policy can prevent complications.
For detailed advice and assistance, contact your insurance adjuster or agent. The aim is to ensure customers understand their coverage and navigate the claims process smoothly.