If you live in a state where hurricanes occur, it’s wise to include hurricane insurance in your policy. According to the Insurance Information Institute (III), Florida ranks first in the nation in storm surge risk. Due to Florida’s location near warm waters and its expansive coastline, this state is particularly vulnerable to hurricanes.
Other states, such as Texas and Louisiana, are also prone to hurricanes. When powerful storms hit the coastal states, even areas miles away from the harshest conditions can receive fallout. Georgia and North Carolina (among other states) have also been impacted by hurricanes, so property owners often opt for hurricane or flood insurance for an extra layer of protection.
Interested in learning more about what you can do to protect your property from hurricanes? Here, we offer tips for safeguarding your assets from this devastating type of natural disaster:
Double Check Your Coverage
Although insurers in Florida include hurricane coverage as a standard part of homeowners’ insurance, you’ll need to verify that your property is covered if hurricane damage occurs if you live in a different state.
It’s important to note that even in Florida, hurricane coverage typically only includes damage from winds–meaning that you may need to purchase flood insurance separately.
Take Before-and-After Photos
Before you submit an insurance claim, it’s helpful to have pre-damage photos of your home on hand. If you haven’t been affected by Hurricane Ian and want to be prepared in case a hurricane or other natural disaster comes your way, take photos as soon as possible. Be sure to store these photos in a safe place, such as iCloud or Google Photos.
Know Your Rights
If disaster strikes and you need to file an insurance claim, you need to know your rights as a policyholder. In the state of Florida, you have the right to receive acknowledgement from your insurance company within two weeks (14 days) of filing. Within 30 days of filing a Proof of Loss, you have the right to be notified whether your claim will be covered, partially covered, denied, or investigated further. If you do not receive a full settlement, partial payment, or denial from your insurance company within 90 days, you may need to seek help from an attorney.
Your home or commercial property is a significant investment that you’ve paid to protect. If your insurance company denies, underpays, or delays your claim, you’ll need an experienced legal team in your corner. We’re licensed to practice in Florida, Georgia, Oregon, and Washington, and can help you navigate the insurance challenges of Hurricane Ian or other natural disasters. Ready to connect? Contact our team for more information.