As hurricane season approaches, it’s crucial to take steps to protect your home and belongings from potential damage. Hurricanes can cause widespread destruction, primarily due to high winds, which can uproot trees, overturn vehicles, shatter windows, and even level buildings. Being prepared can significantly reduce the risk of severe loss and make recovery easier if disaster strikes. Here are some essential tips for safeguarding your possessions and understanding the insurances that can help you recover after a hurricane.

Documenting Your Possessions

To ensure you can recover the full value of your possessions after a hurricane, it’s important to keep a detailed inventory of your items. Here’s how to do it effectively:

1. Jewelry, Artwork, Electronics, Hardware, Vehicles, and Appliances:
   • Create a checklist of all valuable items in your home.
   • Take clear, detailed photos of each item, capturing distinguishing features such as brand names, manufacturer details, model numbers, and any serial numbers.
   • Keep paperwork, receipts, and any certificates of authenticity together in a safe place.
2. Vital Documents:
   • Ensure you have copies of important documents like pet vaccination records, insurance policy information, and medical, dental, and vision cards.
   • Store these documents in a waterproof, fireproof container for added security.

Understanding Insurance Coverage

Knowing the different types of insurance coverage available can help you make informed decisions to protect your home and belongings:

1. Hurricane Insurance:
   • Hurricane insurance typically covers damage from high winds, which are the primary cause of hurricane-inflicted property damage. This can include damage to your home’s structure, windows, and roofing.
2. Flood Insurance:
   • Flood insurance covers water damage from flooding, which is water that comes from below. This type of insurance is essential, as standard homeowner’s insurance policies usually do not cover flood damage.
3. Travel Insurance and Hurricanes:
   • If you are traveling during hurricane season, travel insurance can be a lifesaver. Should airports close due to a hurricane, travel insurance can cover extended hotel costs and added travel expenses, ensuring you’re not left stranded or out of pocket.

Additional Tips

• Secure Your Home:
  • Before a hurricane hits, ensure that your home is secure. This includes boarding up windows, securing doors, and removing or securing outdoor items that could become projectiles in high winds.
• Create an Emergency Kit:
  • Have an emergency kit ready with essentials such as water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, and first aid supplies. Include copies of your vital documents in this kit.
• Plan for Pets:
  • Make sure you have a plan in place for your pets, including their vaccination records and any medications they might need.

Conclusion

By thoroughly documenting your possessions and understanding your insurance options, you can better protect your home and belongings during hurricane season. Taking these proactive steps not only helps in the recovery process but also provides peace of mind knowing that you are well-prepared for whatever the storm may bring. If you have any questions about hurricane or flood insurance, contact your independent insurance agent to ensure you have the coverage you need. Stay safe and prepared this hurricane season!