As a hurricane approaches, take steps to protect your property and minimize damage.
If a hurricane watch is issued for your area, be prepared to take action. A watch means that a hurricane is possible in your area.
If a hurricane warning is issued for your area, take action immediately. A warning means that a hurricane is expected in your area.
During the storm:
• Stay indoors, away from windows, skylights and glass doors.
• Close all hurricane shutters or cover windows with plywood.
• Turn off all utilities at the main power switch and close the main gas valve if instructed to do so.
• Do not use a generator inside your home or garage, even if the doors and windows are open. deadly carbon monoxide can quickly build up.
After the storm:
• Contact your insurance agent or company as soon as possible.
• Take photographs or video of the damage to your property.
• Make temporary repairs to prevent further damage, but save receipts.
• Keep a list of all damaged or destroyed items. Include a description of the item, the date of purchase, and the original cost.
• Contact your mortgage lender if your home is damaged.
• If you have to leave your home, keep a record of your living expenses, including food, lodging, and transportation.
Filing a hurricane claim
If you have damage from a hurricane, you should file a claim with your insurance company as soon as possible. Most homeowner’s policies cover damage from wind and rain, but not from flooding.
To file a claim, you will need:
• Your insurance policy number.
• A list of damaged or destroyed items.
• Photographs or video of the damage.
• Receipts for temporary repairs.
• A record of your living expenses if you had to leave your home.
Your insurance company will send an adjuster to inspect the damage and determine the cost of repairs. The insurance company will then issue a check for the repairs, minus your deductible.
If you have damage from a hurricane, you should file a claim with your insurance company as soon as possible. Most homeowner’s policies cover damage from wind and rain, but not from flooding.
To file a claim, you will need:
• Your insurance policy number.
• A list of damaged or destroyed items.
• Photographs or video of the damage.
• Receipts for temporary repairs.
• A record of your living expenses if you had to leave your home.
Your insurance company will send an adjuster to inspect the damage and determine the cost of repairs. The insurance company will then issue a check for the repairs, minus your deductible.