Dealing with the aftermath of a large storm is stressful but strategic planning will make things easier. What can you do to prepare a storm?
1. Inspect Your Property
Take photos of your property including siding, the roof, and soft metals, like vents and gutters. This will create a record of the state of the property prior to the storm, which makes it easier afterward in the event of sustained damage.
2. Obtain a Copy of Your Insurance Policy
A full copy of your insurance policy is one of the most important documents you should always have on-hand. Many policyholders are unaware of their coverages, deductibles, or exclusions. Oftentimes, a feature that saves you $$$ on your premium, just might impact your wallet even harder in the event of a claim.
3. Have A Working Back-Up Generator
Don’t get caught in the last-minute mania that invariably occurs every storm season – Generators are in high demand immediately prior and after a storm. If you have a generator— excellent! Double-check and make sure it’s in working order. If you don’t have one, avoid procrastination pitfalls and get one ASAP.
4. Add An Extra Layer of Protection
Anything is vulnerable to damage when storms throw their weight around, and that is especially true for windows. Boarding up windows with plywood will give them that extra layer of protection to avoid wind-driven rain from damaging the interior, which could be damage excluded in your policy.
5. Create An Inventory Of Your Property
When it comes to your personal property, documentation is key. Ensuring that documentation is retrievable post storm is crucial. Make sure you have digital copies of your documentation including photos of your property, receipts, or any other evidence related to your property.
6. Have An Emergency Bag
Have supplies ready incase of evacuation or if you get stranded on your property.
Include in your Emergency Bag:
- Water
- Phone with Portable Charger (or Power bank)
- Flashlights or Lanterns
- Non-Perishable Food
- Ice, Coolers, Dry Ice, Gel Packs to keep perishables cold
- First Aid Kit
Similar to generators, necessities like water will fly off the shelves in severe weather situations. Ensuring you are equipped with the essentials ahead of time will reduce the inevitable stress of the current circumstances.
**For additional tips to prepare for a storm check out Consumer Reports
7. Make A Evacuation Plan
Hopefully, you won’t need to execute it, but it’s important to have an evacuation plan in place. Having a plan prepared will enable you to get you and your loved ones to safety quickly.
Property damaged in the storm? Need a policy review?
You may want to consider hiring a Public Adjuster. Premier Claims is a Public Adjusting Firm, and we work for you, the insured. Your insurance agent may sell you insurance, but at the end of the day, they work for the insurance company. We work for YOU.
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