Hurricane Preparedness – Tips from an Attorney

This year has taught us more than ever how important it is to be prepared. With Hurricane Season now upon us, here are some precautionary measures and tips you should follow:

• Keep inventory of all of your personal belongings and the current state of your home.
  Download the free app developed by the National Association of Insurance Commissioners
  called “MyHome Scr.App book”. This app can help you keep an organized list, photos, and
  videos of your personal belongings. Make sure to keep sales receipts and note serial or model
  numbers as well. Doing this will provide proof to your insurance company that you own these
  items and will help the claim process run much more smoothly.
• Store copies of your insurance policy in a safe location and take a copy with you if you
  evacuate. Store digital copies of your policy and photos in your email for easy retrieval.
• We also donate cleaning supplies. Soap, lotion, and deodorant go a long way toward helping a hurricane victim feel better. We make sure to include disinfectants and cleaning supplies that help victims create clean living spaces while their homes and properties undergo renovation or complete rebuilds.
• Understand your policy. You should become familiar with what is covered by your insurance policy long before a hurricane hits. Make sure you have enough coverage for your personal
  belongings, understand what constitutes an “other structure”, and know the difference between actual cash value vs. replacement cost. Ask questions and make changes now.
• If you sustain damage to your home make sure to take photos and videos immediately. Document the damage prior to making repairs or cleaning up. Once you have documented everything, then start mitigating your damage. Make temporary repairs to prevent the damage from getting worse but do not make permanent repairs to your home until you have been paid the full cost of the repairs.
• Document all conversations you have with your insurance company and their adjusters. Take notes of names, times, and dates.
• If the first offer made by the insurance company does not cover the damages you sustained, be prepared to negotiate. This is where you put your knowledge of your policy to good use. If you believe you are being treated unfairly or your insurance company refuses to cover the full amount of your claim, you may need hire a lawyer or a public adjuster to assist you.
• Consult with an Attorney prior to signing any agreements.