Because many types of insurance policies have a waiting period, experts at the National Weather Service and National Hurricane Center are encouraging people to do an insurance “check-up” now before the hurricane season starts in the Atlantic and Central Pacific on June 1.
“Call your insurance company or agent and ask for an insurance check-up to make sure you have enough homeowners insurance to repair or even replace your home,” the National Weather Service advises on the fourth day of Hurricane Preparedness Week. “Don’t forget coverage for your car or boat. Remember, standard homeowners insurance doesn’t cover flooding. Whether you’re a homeowner or renter, you’ll need a separate policy for it, and it’s available through your company, agent or the National Flood Insurance Program at floodsmart.gov. Act now as flood insurance requires a 30-day waiting period.”
During a hurricane or tropical storm situation, it’s important for people to have ready access to their insurance information. If power is going to be out for an extended period of time, make sure you have non-digital hard-copies of policy details, including the name and number of your insurance company contact and policy number in writing. If you need to evacuate, be sure to bring your insurance paperwork with you.
With the COVID-19 Pandemic underway, people should also check their policies for any restrictions or exclusions that such a pandemic could have on their policies.
