Residents Advised To Review Homeowners Insurance Now

TALLAHASSEE, FL – The Property Casualty Insurers Association of America is urging Florida homeowners to take precautions now to prepare for Tropical Storm Gordon, projected to head toward the Gulf Coast and South Florida.

“PCI encourages Florida property owners to take precautions to protect themselves and their belongings from direct and indirect impacts Tropical Storm Gordon and other potential storms that may develop in the Atlantic,” said Logan McFaddin, PCI’s Florida regional manager.

This time last year, Hurricanes Irma and Harvey demonstrated how major storms can develop quickly and bring significant flooding and strong winds to coastal communities.

“Should a storm like Tropical Storm Gordon cause property damage, it’s important to contact your insurer or agent as soon as possible so they can help you begin the recovery process,” said McFaddin.

Flooding from storm surge during hurricanes and tropical storms can be especially dangerous for residents along the coast. Flooding is not covered by a standard homeowners policy; however, flood insurance coverage can be purchased through the National Flood Insurance Program or an insurance company.

“Just be aware that there is typically a 30-day waiting period between the date of purchase and when the actual flood coverage goes into effect,” said McFaddin.

PCI recommends taking the following precautions:

* Review your property insurance policy, especially the “declarations” page, and check whether your policy pays replacement costs or actual cash value for a covered loss.

* Inventory your household items and photograph or videotape them for further documentation. Keep this information and your insurance policies in a safe place.

* Keep the name, address and claims-reporting telephone number of your insurer and agent in a safe and easily accessible place.

* Protect your property by covering all windows with plywood or shutters, moving vehicles into the garage when possible and placing grills and patio furniture indoors.

* Keep all receipts for any repairs so your insurance company can reimburse you.

* Check with your insurance adjuster for referrals to professional restoration, cleaning and salvage companies if additional assistance is needed.

* Make sure watercraft are stored in a secure area, like a garage or covered boat dock. A typical homeowner’s policy will cover property damage in limited instances for small watercraft, and separate boat policies will provide broader, more extensive property and liability protection for larger, faster boats, yachts, jet skis and wave runners. Additional information can be found on PCI’s Hurricane Headquarters page.

Important links:

2018 Insurance Checklist

2018 Hurricane Fact Sheet

2018 Insurance Claim Tips

Replacement Cost vs. Actual Cash Value

National Hurricane Center Director Ken Graham discusses the potential hazards from Tropical Storm Gordon.

Video via NOAA

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