Hurricane season can be a stressful time for homeowners across the state of Florida and the Tampa Bay area, but taking proactive steps can significantly reduce damage to your property. With preparation and the right precautions, you can protect your home and ensure the safety of your loved ones. That’s why our property insurance attorney Blerina (Blair) Hysenlika, ESQ provides essential tips to help protect your home during a hurricane.
Understand Your Insurance Policy
The first step in protecting your home is understanding your insurance policy. Review it carefully to ensure it covers hurricane damage, including:
- Wind damage: Ensure your policy explicitly covers wind-related damage, as some policies may have exclusions.
- Flood insurance: Standard homeowner’s insurance does not typically cover flood damage. Consider purchasing a separate flood insurance policy if you live in a flood-prone area.
- Replacement cost vs. actual cash value: Understand how your policy calculates payouts. Replacement cost policies reimburse you for the full cost of repairs, while actual cash value policies consider depreciation.
Document Your Property
Before hurricane season hits, take the time to document your home and belongings. This process involves:
- Taking photographs and videos of each room, including valuable items, appliances, and furniture.
- Creating a written inventory of all your possessions, noting their purchase dates and values.
Hysenlika says this documentation can be invaluable when filing claims post-hurricane, as it provides evidence of your property’s condition before the storm.
Strengthen Your Home Against Storm Damage
Preparing your home structurally can significantly reduce the risk of severe damage during a hurricane. Here are some steps to take:
- Install storm shutters or board up windows with plywood to prevent breakage from flying debris.
- Secure doors by reinforcing them with deadbolts and using braces on double doors.
- Inspect your roof for loose shingles and repair any issues before the storm hits. Consider adding roof straps for additional support.
Prepare Your Landscape
Your yard can play a significant role in your home’s protection during a hurricane. Here’s how to prepare:
- Trim trees and remove any dead branches that could become projectiles in high winds.
- Clear gutters and drains to prevent flooding around your home. This helps direct water away from your foundation.
- Secure outdoor items like patio furniture, grills, and decorations that can be lifted by strong winds.
Create an Emergency Kit
Hysenlika says preparation goes beyond just physical barriers. Ensure your family is ready for emergencies by creating a comprehensive emergency kit that includes:
- Enough water and non-perishable food for at least three days
- Flashlights, batteries, and a first-aid kit
- Important documents (insurance policies, identification) in a waterproof container
- Medications and a list of emergency contacts
Stay Informed and Be Proactive
Stay updated on hurricane forecasts and warnings through reliable sources such as the National Hurricane Center and local news outlets. If a hurricane is approaching:
- Prepare to evacuate if instructed by local authorities. Know your evacuation routes and have a plan in place for where you’ll stay.
- Communicate with family members about your plan and any changes as the storm progresses.
Post-Hurricane: Filing Your Claim
If your home sustains damage during the hurricane, the aftermath can be overwhelming. Here are steps to take when filing a claim:
- Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the damage.
- Keep a detailed record of all communications with your insurer, including dates, times, and the names of representatives you speak with.
- Document the damage with photographs and make a list of all damaged items for your claim.
Consider consulting with a property insurance attorney if you face challenges in the claims process. An attorney can help you understand your rights and navigate complex insurance issues.
By following these tips, you can minimize damage to your property and ensure a smoother claims process if disaster strikes. As an experienced property insurance attorney, Hysenlika encourages all homeowners to take these steps seriously. If you have any questions or need assistance, don’t hesitate to call us at (813) 803-0733 for professional guidance.
Contact our attorneys and schedule a free consultation. For more information, visit HysenlikaLawFirm.com.
