Preparation is Key: Before, During, and After the Hurricane.

As hurricane season approaches, it’s essential for homeowners to take steps to prepare for potential property damage and the subsequent insurance claim process. Here are some specific steps that should be taken before a hurricane strikes to ensure that the policyholder is prepared to deal with the aftermath and put themselves in the best position to recover what is owed for their property damage claim from their insurance company:

  1. Review Your Insurance Policy: The first step in preparing for a hurricane is to review your insurance policy. Ensure that you understand the terms of your policy, including coverage limits, exclusions, and deductibles. If you have any questions, reach out to your insurance agent or attorney.
  2. Document Your Property: Before the hurricane hits, take photos or videos of your property and possessions. This will help to prove what damage was caused by the hurricane and make it easier to file your claim. Store these photos and videos in a safe place, such as a cloud-based storage service.
  3. Prepare for the Storm: As a hurricane approaches, secure your property by putting up shutters, trimming trees, and moving outdoor furniture and decorations inside. Have emergency supplies on hand, such as food, water, and first aid supplies.
  4. Keep Records: After the storm, keep detailed records of all conversations with your insurance company, including the date and time of the conversation, the name of the representative you spoke with, and a summary of the discussion. Keep all receipts and invoices for expenses related to your property damage claim, such as repairs, lodging, and meals.
  5. Mitigate Your Damages: Once it’s safe to do so, mitigate your damages by making necessary repairs to prevent further damage to your property. For example, if your roof is damaged, have it tarped to prevent water from entering your home. Be sure to keep records of any repairs made, including photos and receipts.
  6. File Your Claim: As soon as possible after the storm, file your insurance claim. Be sure to provide all necessary documentation and be prepared to answer any questions that your insurance company may have.

By following these steps before and after a hurricane, policyholders can put themselves in the best position to recover what is owed for their property damage claim from their insurance company. It’s important to remember that the insurance claim process can be complex, and it may be beneficial to seek the guidance of an experienced insurance claims attorney.