As we gear up for hurricane season, ensuring your insurance coverage is comprehensive and up-to-date is crucial. At Dickerson Agency, Inc. Insurance Services, we understand the complexities of insurance policies and are here to guide you through the essentials. This blog will cover some common questions and scenarios related to hurricane season and insurance, helping you feel prepared and confident.
Understanding Hurricane Season and Insurance Coverage
Hurricane season, which typically runs from June 1st to November 30th, can bring powerful storms that cause significant damage to homes and properties. Understanding your insurance coverage and knowing what to do in the event of a storm can make all the difference in how quickly and smoothly you recover.
If a Neighbor’s Tree Falls on Your House or Property
One of the most common questions we receive is: “If a neighbor’s tree falls on my house or property, whose insurance pays?” The answer depends on several factors, including the circumstances leading up to the tree falling.
Scenario 1: Healthy Tree Falls Due to Storm
If a healthy tree on your neighbor’s property falls on your house due to a hurricane, your homeowner’s insurance policy typically covers the damage. Standard homeowner’s insurance policies usually include coverage for damage caused by falling trees during a storm.
Scenario 2: Negligent Maintenance
If the tree was dead or diseased, and your neighbor neglected to address it despite being aware of the hazard, their homeowner’s insurance might be liable for the damage. In this case, you might need to provide evidence that your neighbor was aware of the tree’s condition and failed to take appropriate action.
Scenario 3: Shared Responsibility
In some cases, both parties’ insurance policies might come into play, especially if the tree falls on the property line. It’s always best to communicate with your insurance provider to understand your specific coverage and get clarity on your unique situation.
Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Floods?
Another crucial aspect of hurricane preparedness is understanding what your homeowner’s insurance covers. Many homeowners assume their policy covers all types of storm damage, but this is not always the case.
Flood Damage
Standard homeowner’s insurance policies do not cover flood damage. Flooding caused by heavy rain, storm surges, or overflowing rivers requires separate flood insurance. The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP), managed by FEMA, offers flood insurance to property owners in participating communities. You can also purchase flood insurance through private insurers.
Wind and Water Damage
While flood damage is excluded, most homeowner’s insurance policies cover wind damage and water damage resulting from wind-driven rain. This includes damage to your roof, siding, windows, and interior. However, if water enters your home due to rising floodwaters, you’ll need a flood insurance policy to cover those damages.
What is a Moratorium?
A term you might encounter during hurricane season is “moratorium.” Understanding this term is essential when it comes to purchasing or modifying your insurance coverage.
Definition of Moratorium
A moratorium is a temporary suspension of the sale of new insurance policies or the modification of existing policies. Insurance companies typically enforce moratoriums when a storm is imminent or already occurring. This means you cannot buy new insurance coverage or make changes to your existing policy until the moratorium is lifted.
Timing and Preparedness
Moratoriums underscore the importance of preparing for hurricane season well in advance. Review and update your insurance policies before the hurricane season starts to ensure you have adequate coverage. Waiting until a storm is forecasted could leave you without the necessary protection.
Additional Considerations for Hurricane Season
Preparing for hurricane season involves more than just understanding your insurance coverage. Here are some additional steps you can take to protect your home and ensure a smooth claims process if you need to file one.
Create a Home Inventory
Documenting your belongings is crucial in the event of a claim. Create a detailed home inventory, including photos, descriptions, and receipts if possible. This will help expedite the claims process and ensure you receive fair compensation for your losses.
Secure Important Documents
Keep important documents, such as insurance policies, birth certificates, and passports, in a safe, waterproof location. Consider storing digital copies on a secure cloud service for easy access after a storm.
Strengthen Your Home
Take steps to reinforce your home against storm damage. This includes installing storm shutters, reinforcing garage doors, and trimming trees and shrubs around your property. These measures can help reduce the risk of damage and may even qualify you for discounts on your insurance premiums.
Emergency Preparedness Kit
Prepare an emergency kit with essentials such as water, non-perishable food, medications, flashlights, batteries, and a first-aid kit. Being prepared can help you stay safe and comfortable during and after a storm.
Filing a Claim After a Hurricane
If your home is damaged during a hurricane, filing a claim promptly and accurately is essential for a smooth recovery process.
Document the Damage
Before you begin cleanup or repairs, document the damage thoroughly. Take photos and videos of all affected areas and make a list of damaged items. This documentation will be critical when you file your claim.
Contact Your Insurance Provider
Reach out to your insurance provider as soon as possible to report the damage and begin the claims process. Provide them with all necessary documentation and follow their instructions closely.
Temporary Repairs
If it’s safe to do so, make temporary repairs to prevent further damage. For example, you can place tarps over a damaged roof or board up broken windows. Keep all receipts for these repairs, as your insurance may reimburse you for these expenses.
Work with Adjusters
An insurance adjuster will likely visit your home to assess the damage. Be prepared to provide them with your documentation and answer any questions they may have. Cooperating with the adjuster can help expedite your claim.
Closing Thoughts & Staying Prepared
Hurricane season can be a stressful time, but with the right insurance coverage and preparation, you can weather the storm with confidence. At Dickerson Agency, Inc. Insurance Services, we are committed to helping you understand your policies and ensuring you have the protection you need. Don’t wait until a storm is on the horizon – review your insurance coverage today and make any necessary updates.
Remember, we’re here to help. If you have any questions about your insurance coverage or need assistance with your policy, please contact us. Stay safe this hurricane season, and know that you can count on us to be there for you every step of the way. Contact us here for more info.