Hurricane Season starts in June and runs through November with the most active time being mid-August through mid-October. Among the most common damages caused by hurricanes are water and wind damage, which also account for most home insurance claims.
While it’s no secret Mother Nature can really pack a punch, there are steps you can take ahead of time to help lessen the blow.
1. Secure the Perimeter
Make sure your home is as secure as possible. Walk around and check for any loose or damaged roof shingles, siding, or gutters. These might seem like minor issues now, but they can turn into major headaches during and after a bad storm.
2. Trim Those Trees
If you’ve got trees hanging over your house or power lines, now’s the time to give them a little trim. You don’t want any branches turning into projectiles during a hurricane. Plus, it’ll give your yard a neat and tidy look – bonus!
3. Stock Up on Supplies
You know the drill – stock up on essentials like water, non-perishable food, batteries, flashlights, and first aid supplies. And don’t forget about your furry friends – make sure you’ve got enough food and supplies for them too.
4. Create a Family Emergency Plan
It’s always a good idea to have a plan in place in case you need to evacuate or hunker down at home during a storm. Make sure everyone in your household knows what to do and where to go if things start to get hairy.
5. Backup Power
Losing power during a storm is a major buzzkill. Consider investing in a generator (if you haven’t already), or make sure to stock up on backup batteries to keep the lights on when the grid goes dark.
6. Document Your Belongings
Take some time to snap photos or videos of your home and belongings. It might sound a bit extra, but having documentation can be a lifesaver when it comes to insurance claims. If you want to take it another step further – create a home inventory list. Our Chief Claims Officer recommends using HouseBook.
7. Review Your Insurance Coverage
Last but not least, take some time to review your homeowners insurance policy and make sure you’re covered for hurricane-related damage. This might include wind damage, flooding, and even additional living expenses if you’re forced to evacuate.
Consider adding additional coverages/endorsements to your policy if necessary to ensure comprehensive protection for your home and belongings. A good one to look at is a flood insurance policy.
Preparing for Hurricane Season doesn’t have to be daunting. By following these simple tips and reviewing your insurance coverage, you can mitigate the risks associated with hurricanes and protect your home and family from potential harm.
Swyfft is ready. After a storm hits, our team of CAT response adjusters, engineers, repair contractors and housing specialists are staged and ready to be deployed should you need. Visit our Claims Center to learn more about our customer claims portal, emergency response and Direct Repair Network.