Hurricane Season is upon us. Texas was hit last week and now Isiais is schedule to graze the coast but may come for an actual visit. Most of us have been through a hurricanes before. Over the last few years, we have dealt with two in St. Augustine alone. We wanted to give you some tips on how to make sure your covered throughout this hurricane season.
1. Locate your insurance policy information including Flood insurance and have your claim contact handy.
The moment you know you have damage, make your claim. Insurance companies do their best to get to you quickly, but if we have state wide damage or worse, multi state wide damage, it may take them a while to get an adjuster over to you. Also, review your policy so you know what is covered. Look at the Hurricane provisions in your policy. Take photographs of your property as soon as you get back to it or when it is safe to do so once the weather clears.
2. Look up locally owned construction and roofing companies.
Locally owned companies have a stake in the community and a reputation to maintain. If we take a hit, roofing companies will be busy so you will want to contact them as soon as possible. Ask your insurance company about getting it tarped to mitigate damages. Ask your friends, family, co-workers about companies. Review their Facebook pages.
3. Secure your property and get the yard cleaned.
Getting outdoor furniture in, small pots and anything that can fly in the wind will reduce damage caused by flying debris. It will also save you from having to replace small things that are under your deductible. Having your grass mowed, limbs picked up will make clean up much easier. Trim any branches that are close to your home or could cause damage.
4. Be prepared to go without electricity for multiple days.
If you have a generator, make sure it is running, that you have fuel, and get it serviced.
5. Make sure your pets health papers are current.
Verify that dogs and cats are up to date on their vaccines and have copies readily available for proof. Some places will require this if you need to evacuate.
6. Stay safe and be courtesy to others.
Hurricanes can be stressful. Be mindful that some may not have the resources to do what they need to be prepared. On the plus side, they give us a great opportunity to put our differences aside and help one another.