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As Hurricane Helene heads towards Florida, it’s essential to take proactive steps to protect your home and ensure a smooth insurance claim process in the event of damage. At Murray Law Group, we’ve handled countless hurricane-related claims, and we know that preparation is key to getting the best outcome from your insurance company. Here are three critical steps to take as you prepare for Hurricane Helene.
1. Document Your Property Thoroughly
Before Hurricane Helene makes landfall, it's vital to create a detailed record of your property. This means taking comprehensive photos and videos of both the inside and outside of your home. Pay special attention to vulnerable areas like your roof, windows, doors, and outdoor structures (such as fences, sheds, or pool enclosures). Be sure to take wide-angle shots to capture the overall condition of your home and close-up images of any valuable assets.
For expensive items like electronics, jewelry, and appliances, document receipts, warranties, and serial numbers. Store this documentation in a secure place—ideally, both digitally and physically. This evidence will be crucial if you need to file a claim with your insurance company, providing clear proof of the condition of your property before the storm. This step can prevent disputes and speed up the claims process in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.
2. Review Your Insurance Policy
Understanding your homeowner’s insurance policy is crucial as a hurricane approaches. Take time to go through your policy to make sure you know exactly what is covered. Focus on your hurricane or windstorm coverage, and pay attention to any deductibles that apply specifically to hurricane damage. Florida policies often have separate deductibles for hurricanes, which can sometimes be a percentage of your home’s insured value rather than a flat amount.
It’s also important to verify whether you have flood coverage. Standard homeowner’s insurance policies typically do not cover flood damage, and flooding can be a major risk during hurricanes due to storm surges and heavy rain. If you don’t have flood insurance, now might be the time to explore your options. Knowing your coverage limits ahead of time will help you be prepared for any out-of-pocket costs and avoid surprises when you file a claim.
3. Protect Your Property
As Hurricane Helene approaches, take preventative action to minimize potential damage to your property. Begin by securing your home with storm shutters or plywood over windows and reinforcing doors. Don’t forget to brace your garage door, as it’s often a weak spot in homes during hurricanes.
Clear your yard of loose items such as patio furniture, tools, and decorations, which can become dangerous projectiles in high winds. If possible, trim trees and remove any dead or overhanging branches that could fall on your home or vehicles. If you have time, move your vehicles into a garage or secure area to protect them from flying debris.
Taking these steps not only reduces the risk of damage but also shows your insurance company that you took reasonable measures to protect your property. This can help you in the claims process by demonstrating your efforts to mitigate losses. Be sure to keep receipts for any materials or services used to fortify your home, as these could be reimbursable under your insurance policy.
Stay Prepared, Stay Safe
At Murray Law Group, we understand the stress that comes with hurricane season, especially when a storm like Hurricane Helene is on the horizon. By following these steps, you can protect your property, ensure a smoother insurance claim process, and gain peace of mind. If you do experience property damage, our firm is here to help you navigate the claims process and fight for the compensation you deserve.
For more information on how to prepare for a hurricane or assistance with an insurance claim, contact Murray Law Group today. Stay safe and take the necessary precautions before the storm arrives.