Prepare for Hurricane Season: Essential Tips for Homeowners

The American Property Casualty Insurance Association (APCIA) stresses the importance of preparing for the Atlantic hurricane season, which began this week. Despite the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration forecasting a below-normal season with 8-14 named storms, preparation remains vital. Michael Richmond-Crum, senior director of personal lines at APCIA, stated, "It only takes one storm to devastate communities and cause billions of dollars in damage."

Homeowners are urged to take proactive measures to bolster property resilience. Essential actions include trimming nearby trees, checking roofs for damage, securing gutters, and sealing gaps around windows and doors. Additional upgrades, such as wind-rated garage doors or hurricane shutters, are recommended. Adhering to the Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety’s Fortified construction standard can further enhance home protection.

Given the escalating costs of labor and materials, comprehensive insurance coverage is critical. Richmond-Crum advises homeowners to review their policies to ensure adequate cover, emphasizing the need for sufficient insurance to rebuild or repair homes after extensive damage.

When reviewing insurance policies, it's important to evaluate policy limits, deductibles, and whether coverage is based on replacement cost or actual cash value. Consideration of flood insurance is also crucial, as it is not included in standard homeowners' policies but can be acquired through the National Flood Insurance Program or private insurers. Additional coverages, such as automatic inflation guard and building code/ordinance coverage, should also be assessed.

Homeowners are encouraged to document home inventories with photos and videos and store copies of insurance policies in accessible locations to streamline the claims process. Keeping insurer contact information handy and using insurer apps can expedite claims if damage occurs.

Richmond-Crum emphasizes the financial impact of natural disasters on rising insurance costs. Strengthening homes and communities to withstand severe weather can improve long-term insurance affordability. Many insurers offer premium discounts for measures that mitigate storm damage risk. Homeowners should consult with their insurers or agents about available discounts.