We enjoy the benefits of living in such a beautiful location, but of course the dreaded effects of hurricane season are always present.

Make sure to best protect yourself and prepare for potential losses.  Since we cannot prevent it, accept it, and prepare.

The largest threat during an active hurricane event will always be water rising during a storm period. Verify your flood policy is active and in place. If not, you must act now. There is a 30-day waiting period prior to coverage taking place for reinstated or newly purchased policies (limited exceptions apply).  Now is the time for action specifically for flood insurance.

For homeowners’ insurance there is no mandated waiting period.  However, there will be closed windows when a policy can be bound.  Once carriers close for binding, even active presented quotes cannot be bound for coverage.  Now is the time to review, complete required inspections and bind or adjust coverage for this season.

If you own a boat, make sure to have your hurricane plan ready to be executed.  Many policies require removal from the water, dock or lift.  This is very important to provide coverage during a loss. Your boat policy should be reviewed for coverage and requirements the carrier mandates during the storm. Remember these mandates are when a warning is issued for your area, not a direct hit.

Assemble a disaster supply kit which includes at least 1 gallon of drinking water for each person in your family per day. Have 72 hours for nonperishable food for each person in your family.  At a minimum include, battery powered radio, flashlights, extra batteries, first aid kits, medications, legal documents for identification, chargers, cash and other essentials. Also, do not forget about your pets needs as well.

If you plan to leave prior to a storm, leave well in advance of landfall.  Best practice suggests 72 hours prior to storm effects. Hotels will fill quickly and roadways will be congested.

While we all pray for limited exposure to storms each year.  Knowing your insurance coverage, hurricane plan and supplies are ready will allow for relief to an extremely stressful experience.

To review your policies prior to Hurricane Season, contact our new business specialist Sam Collins.

Sam Collins
Personal New Business Representative