Steps to Take Now in Preparation for Hurricane Season

When a person or family suffers damage to their home from a storm, it can be a life-altering event. This is especially true if the destruction is caused by wind, hail, or flooding. On top of this stress, they are then tasked with submitting a claim to their insurance company to get fair compensation for the losses they have suffered. Unfortunately, getting the insurance company to do the right thing is easier said than done.

Getting Insurance Companies to Cooperate

When you have an insurance policy, it is a legally binding contract with the insurance company. This means that certain conditions must typically be met prior to being able to resolve a claim. Often, the companies request things that are improper or impossible to perform or require items that are not even listed in the policy.

Taking certain steps now will help to protect you in the event that you do have to make a claim. These steps include:

Videotape or photograph both the inside and outside of your house showing the condition of the property and your belongings
Keep your insurance policy in a safe place and, if possible, at a location other than your home
Take a picture of your insurance declaration page, so you have quick access to the phone number for the insurance company and your policy details

Having trustworthy legal guidance may also be beneficial in navigating some of the tricky aspects of insurance claim requirements.

Tips for Preparing Your Home Before a Hurricane

With hurricane season on the horizon, being proactive is essential to minimizing damage. To prepare yourself and your home, follow these tips:

Create an emergency kit containing water, non-perishable food, flashlights, first aid, a portable cell phone charger, and games
Make an evacuation plan
Consider how to protect your belongings and home depending on where you live, including things like hurricane shutters, boards over the windows, et cetera

With a bit of planning and preparation, you can make an extremely scary and stressful situation of an approaching hurricane a little less hectic.

Helpful Resources

Websites that are important to be familiar with during hurricane season include:

National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration

National Hurricane Center

Federal Emergency Management Agency

American Red Cross

Contact one of the knowledgeable attorneys from Norden Leacox Accident & Injury Law if you need help filing an insurance claim after a hurricane.

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