Often, we don’t think about natural disasters until our family suffers the consequences. Natural disasters can occur at any time. We should all be prepared in the event we experience one. Whether it is a hurricane, tornado, or flash flood, you need to be prepared for the worst.

 

Here are a few tips for preparing your home against a natural disaster.

 

• Clear Gutters. – Make sure all the debris has been cleared from your gutters and make sure that you have repaired any leaks that you might have on your roof. If you can afford to do so, extend the downspouts for your rain gutters and make sure the water is directed away from your home.

 

• Check the Septic System. – Every season should start with inspection and cleaning of your septic system. When there are periods of heavy rainfall, sewers that become clogged or septic tanks that are overtaxed are disasters that are just waiting to happen. You might want to consider installing a sump pump to drain out the unwanted standing water.

 

• Check for Foundation Problems. – Thoroughly check your home’s foundation for small holes or cracks that might allow water to seep in. Just a few inches of water coming in from the excessive rains can damage your flooring, drywall, and even the structure. Check for cracks under and around the basement door as well.

 

• Fight High Wind Damage. – If the forecast includes strong winds, you should prepare your home against it. Keep all trees trimmed, clean branches and debris from your yard, and be sure to board up any windows.

 

• Prepare an Evacuation Kit. – Be sure you prepare an evacuation kit, and have it stored in a safe, accessible location. It should contain non-perishable food, water, clothing, extra medications, pet supplies, and first-aid supplies. Include a battery-powered flashlight and radio and add in some extra batteries.

 

What Does Your Insurance Policy Cover?

 

You should check your homeowners policy before you need to file a claim. While finding your home heavily damaged or destroyed after a natural disaster would be devastating, finding out your insurance didn’t cover those damages would be even more devastating. Most standard homeowners policies offer no coverage for flooding. You should consider adding Flood Insurance to your policy. The National Flood Insurance Program offers coverage for homeowners in areas that are prone to flooding.

 

Earthquake insurance is also an optional form of coverage as well. If you live in an area that is prone to earthquakes, you should seriously consider adding this coverage to your insurance portfolio. To get earthquake coverage, you will need to make sure your home is stable by taking some extra precautions.

 

The standard policy doesn’t cover hurricanes and storms. While most policies do cover damage from windstorms, flooding from a hurricane isn’t covered. Standard homeowners policies don’t cover damages that result from flood-related storms or tsunamis.

 

Check Your Overall Insurance Coverage

 

While you might have the right kind of coverage for your specific needs, make sure you have enough coverage. For example, if your home would cost $300,000 to rebuild and you only have $150,000 coverage, you would be left paying out of pocket the remainder for rebuilding.  Make sure you have enough coverage. That figure is often higher than the actual market value of your residence. You should also consider the deductible on your policy.

 

If you have $150,000 worth of storm damage and you have a 10% deductible, you will have to pay $15,000 out of pocket before the insurance will start reimbursing for damages. Make sure your deductible is realistic and something that you can afford should disaster strike. Can you afford to pay out that much should a disaster hit your home? If you can’t, opt for a lower deductible.

 

Take the time to discuss the optional riders and additional coverage available to homeowners with your agent. Your insurance agent will make sure you have the right coverage for your specific needs. The right company will take the time to assess your situation, your risks, and the costs that are associated with insurance coverage. They can recognize any gaps in coverage and will help you determine which solution will fit your specific needs.

 

To learn more about homeowners insurance for natural disasters, contact the professionals with ProtectiveAgency.com  at (877) 739-9367. Our licensed insurance team will be happy to answer any questions you have.