6 Important Tips to Help You Prepare for Hurricane Season

​With hurricane season quickly approaching, the best way to prepare for a hurricane is to plan ahead so that you are ready when the storm is coming. Property owners all too often find themselves unprepared and anxious when these devastating storms are heading their way. Fortunately, there are some precautionary measures you can take in advance to better protect your property and financial well-being.
 
With a little preparation, you will be in a better position to navigate the unpredictable 2022 hurricane season. Here are 6 steps you can take ensure that you are hurricane ready and make sure you do not miss our free hurricane checklist below.
 
#1 Verify Your Insurance Coverage
Take the time to review your property’s insurance policy to verify that you are fully covered for any damage. Property insurance typically covers temporary repairs after a hurricane, in addition to extra living expenses that may be required as a result of relocating to a temporary dwelling.
 
It is important to note that property insurance does not cover flood-related damage and you should have a separate flood policy.  Additionally, make sure your insurance policy covers damage caused by hurricane and wind.
 
#2 Have a Pre-Loss Property Inspection
You should get a pre-loss property inspection before a storm in the event you need to file an insurance claim. By doing so, you are equipping yourself with sufficient evidence to prove the new damage is not pre-existing damage. This can certainly help increase your chances of receiving full coverage for your damages.
 
Before a storm, not everyone has the time, resources, or equipment to comprehensively document the interior and exterior of their home and/or commercial property.
 
Reliant Insurance Adjusters has a Pre-Loss Inspection Program for both residential and commercial properties in Broward and Palm Beach County and includes a complete and thorough inspection of the interior and exterior of your property. This documents the condition of your property before you have an insurance claim. Our inspections include photos and/or video report of the exterior and interior of your property together with aerial images and video footage of your roof with our state-of-the art drone equipment.
 
It can often be difficult, if not impossible, to prove to an insurance company the full extent of your damages once disaster strikes. This is an extremely important and useful report to have prior to hurricane season.
 
#3 Take an inventory of your property
It may seem like an unnecessary step but compiling a list of all your belongings within your home or business will help show the condition of your property before they are damaged.  Keep the inventory with your important documents. In the event you need to evacuate, be sure to take it with you. It is also wise to keep an electronic copy saved where you can access it anytime via your phone, tablet, or computer.
 
#4 Prepare and Protect Your Property
Prepare and protect your residential and/or commercial properties in preparation for hurricane season. Since you don’t know when or if a hurricane will impact your property, it is recommended that you prepare as if it will happen. Here are a few suggested steps you can take:

• To help reduce water damage and divert water away from your property, clear your gutters, downspouts, and drains.
• Minimize the chance of having broken windows with permanent storm shutters for the best protection. If you do not have impact windows or shutters, cover and protect your windows with plywood. 
• Secure the exterior by trimming large trees and storing outdoor items. Outdoor furniture, trash cans, potted plants, and bicycles can easily be carried away by high winds. Bring them indoors or anchor them before a storm. 
• Reinforce external doors with extra hinges or a deadbolt. If possible, consider replacing old sliding glass doors and windows with impact glass installations and replacing old garage doors with new impact doors.

 
#5 Have an Emergency Stock of Necessary Supplies
Having an emergency stock of supplies ready to go well in advance of a hurricane is essential. During a storm, stores and suppliers tend to run out of bottled water, medical kits, and other essential goods rather quickly. To provide for your family, it is a good idea to have these items already on hand and stored in plastic bins. Keep at least a seven-day supply.
 
We created our own Hurricane Supply Checklist that will help you with everything you will need in case of an emergency.  Click below to download your free copy.
 
#6 Plan Your Evacuation Ahead of Time
One of the most important elements of hurricane preparation is planning your evacuation process. If you think evacuations are only for those who live on or near the coast, keep in mind that hurricane storm surges can often push water tens of miles inland.  If you do have to evacuate, it is important to unplug all electronics and appliances.  
 
Helpful information for planning your evacuation route can be found on your local county or city website. You will undoubtedly get instructions from local news reports as well as social media. However, it is still important to create your evacuation plan and familiarize yourself with nearby shelters and boarding options for your pets well before a storm. Review your plans with everyone in your home and make sure each person knows what to do in case of this type of emergency.
 
In the event of a hurricane, Reliant Insurance Adjusters is here for you. Our team is experienced with handling all types of insurance claims, interpreting insurance policies, and protecting our clients’ interests throughout the entire claims process. 
We also have the resources to conduct pre-loss inspections which can help you with any insurance claim. Contact us today for your Pre-Loss Inspection or for more information on how we can help you.

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