For much of the US, the summer season begins either mid or post May, but in the Sunshine State, we like to unofficially start at the beginning of May, right as school breaks for the year. For Florida residents, it feels like summer all year round but with so much action happening in the latter half of the year, it may be easy to overlook your insurance policies. There’s always something happening during this time so we will provide a broad overview on what to take into account. To make sure your policies will protect you for the remainder of the year, here are a few things to look out for this summer.
1. Rainy Season
This is actually something we get as a pre-game before hurricane season. While we should be grateful to have some sort of buffer, it can be an interesting time. One day can be bright and beautiful and the next three days can be torrential storms. It seems a bit off-kilter but always be on the lookout for flooding. Rainy season usually sets up Floridians’ expectations of what is to come when Hurricane season rolls around. Be sure to check your home for any possible leaks that can cause damage to the home when the rain comes down. It’s also important to remember that Flood Insurance is not part of a standard homeowner policy and there can be waiting periods of up to 30 days to put a new policy in place! It is also important to review your homeowner’s policy with your Agent annually to communicate all updates to your property.
2. Hurricane Season
Well speak of the devil, right after one season and into another. Hurricane season runs June 1st to November 30th every year. We are constantly told to be prepared, but of course, experts are predicting 2021 to be full of activity. Oddly enough, the rainy season helps act as a buffer for what’s to come in the future. Always speak to your agent if you are unsure about your coverage for wind, flood, and perils related to severe weather. You should also download our 2021 Harris Hurricane Handbook if you haven’t already!
3. Chillin’ & Grillin’
While many kids and teens are home from the summer, it may get a little chaotic with visitors appearing more frequently in the home. With more action in and around the property, please be aware of what liability coverage your homeowners policy has. While accidents may happen, it is always good to have an additional layer of protection, or umbrella policy.
Since the summer is synonymous with Grilling, it is also wise to check on any sort of coverages for fires and smoke. While practicing safe grilling either in the front or back yard, it is always reassuring to know that you, your family, your home, and any visitors will have additional protection.
4. Increasing Teen Drivers
Since teens will be enjoying the summer, that means there will be more cars on the road. Always double-check your auto insurance and communicate with your Agent the best way to insure youthful drivers on your policy. If you are looking for a car for your teen this summer, insurance premiums will be more cost effective if you look for and purchase a safer vehicle.
5. What if I am renting my house to someone for the summer?
This is an interesting question. Many people do flock to Florida for summer vacation, and some residents have multiple properties to rent out. If you are looking to rent your property to someone looking to get away for a bit, always notify your Agent to be sure that your policy is written to include the rental exposure. Some insurers allow for short-term or long-term rentals to be added to your existing policy but it absolutely needs to be addressed before you start renting your property. Always speak to your agent if this is something new you want to explore!
Staying safe while having fun in the sun is a total win!
If you have additional questions regarding your insurance policies in the upcoming summer months, please call us 850.244.2111 to speak to your Agent. You can also email us at service@harrisinsurance.com.
See you at the beach!
☀🕶
LEGAL DISCLAIMER
Views expressed here do not constitute legal advice. The information contained herein is for general guidance of matter only and not for the purpose of providing legal advice. Discussion of insurance policy language is descriptive only. Every policy has different policy language. Coverage afforded under any insurance policy issued is subject to individual policy terms and conditions. Please refer to your policy for the actual language.
