Santa Cruz: Before Storm Hits, Check Your Homeowners, Renters Policies

With heavy rains and strong winds expected to hit the Bay Area Thursday and Friday, the Department of Insurance is urging residents to review their insurance policies today.

“Today as Northern Californians prepare for extreme wet weather conditions, it’s important that they remember to make sure their financial affairs are in order,” Commissioner Dave Jones said in a statement.

“Taking the time to update your home inventory, and understanding your insurance policy are just as important in preparing for this storm as having an emergency go kit and securing outdoor items.”

[Related: Slippery When Wet! CHP Reminds You How To Drive In Drizzly Weather and What To Do If Hydroplaning.]

Department of Insurance officials urged resident to update their home inventory and store pictures or videos of clothing and personal belongings on a digital cloud server.

Homeowners and renters should understand their policy and what is covered or excluded before the storm hits, insurance officials said.

Officials cautioned that flood damage is not covered in most policies, but roof damage caused by wind or falling trees may be covered.

For help filing an insurance claim or interpreting an insurance policy, residents can call the Department of Insurance’s consumer services branch at (800) 927-4357.

[Previous: Avoid Storm Repair Scams.]

-- Bay City News

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