It has been an interesting 2022 Atlantic Hurricane Season thus far. While some years are highly active, this one seems to be a tiny bit on the slower side. We did, however, experience Hurricane Ian’s powerful forces and we sincerely hope that Florida’s West Coast recovers well. As we round the corner to the end of Hurricane Season, which officially ends November 30th, here are some quick tips to help you as each day of the seasons’ end nears closer! Here’s to no more storms!
1. It’s never too late to inspect your property!
As with general maintenance of your property, it is always important to see if there is anything you can do to be proactive in case of a storm. Many times, a quick home inspection where the roof is a main focus can uncover your home’s current or future problem areas. Oftentimes, a small crack in your roof may not affect the home until a storm, as the forces of nature can exasperate a small crack, which can lead to structural damage. Hurricane damage (if a storm does hit your area-which nobody wants-) unfortunately uncovers many property weaknesses while also introducing new problems.
2. Weather patterns and storm predictions may change frequently
We see this all the time. The NOAA, local and national news coverage and weather websites often track many storms that can predict it coming to our state in one way or another. While we understand it is a cautious and necessary effort on their part, we have to understand that as these storms move through the ocean, there’s a possibility for the trajectory of their pattern to change. Spaghetti models are often broad in their scope and due to advanced computing technology; they provide more predictions and scenarios that may conflict with other sources. As crazy as it sounds, it is better to take things at a slower pace to understand where a possible storm could end up in relation to where you are located.
Bonus: If you are familiar with nature and birding, Ibises (white feathered birds with long orange beaks / the University of Miami mascot) often come to your area in droves when there are weather systems coming and going from your area. They are the last to flee the area when storms or hurricanes blow in but also the very first to re-appear afterward. This may be a sign to check your local weather or the NOAA about possible storms heading to your area. These birds may be cute but also excellent, and natural meteorologists.
3. When to file a claim
As Insurance companies, including our establishment, get an increased number of claims after a storm passes through, it is best to remember that filing claims should occur after a tropical or named storm passes through your area. While this process is time consuming, please make sure to be as thorough as possible.
To help aid the claims process, it is good to document all the damage to your property — the more details, the better it will be for your agent to assist you. It’s important to document everything from taking photos of any or all damage to the structure(s) or personal property. You can further include any written descriptions of your property with your phone and even use both pictures and written notes together. Both detailed visual and written evidence can go a long way toward completing your claim and getting an accurate reimbursement.
4. How to prepare for another storm
In the event many storms will continue to come close to the area you live, always remember to prepare your property. Whether it is using shutters on your windows, tying up loose items, or inspecting your current landscaping, it is always good to be both cautious and proactive in these circumstances. Remember that if you’re shopping for a different policy during hurricane season, there could be times where insurance companies may be restricting the binding of the policies based on the national weather severity and emergency situations. For more information on this, ask your agent.
5. We have a Hurricane Handbook
Whether you’re a seasoned Floridian or new to The Sunshine State, you’ve heard that Hurricane Season runs from June 1st through November 30th each year. Since 1965, Harris Insurance is here for you before, during, and after the storms. No matter where you are in your preparations, please use our resources below and always stay safe.
We’ve developed The 2022 Harris Hurricane Handbook to tell you everything you need to think about in order to prepare for any level of storm that might turn your way. In this FREE Guide, you will find:
· Hurricane Preparation Checklist
· How to build an Emergency Kit
· Vital Insurance Information in regards to Hurricane Damage
· Tips for Evacuating or Staying in your Home
· What to do after the Storm
· And more!
As always, we hope no more big storms head our way. Natural disasters are not a joking matter for citizens, residences, or businesses. We hope to educate you while also helping our community during every hurricane season.
As we continue into October, more than halfway through Hurricane Season, we may be seeing more news surrounding tropical storms, named storms, hurricanes. Always be prepared for what’s to come! Remember to keep in touch with our friendly insurance agents if you need some quick info or advice.
We are here to help answer any questions you may have when it comes to all things insurance and weather! Drop us a line at service@harrisinsurance.com or call us at 850.244.2111
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.
