All About Insurance
A good homeowner’s (or renter’s) insurance
policy is critical. Discuss the following with your
insurance representative:
Most homes in Florida have a special deductible for hurricane damage. Ask about your policy and potential out-of-pocket cost.
Prepare a complete home inventory with photos. Videotape if possible and store in a safe-deposit box.
Does your policy cover the actual cash value (replacement cost, less depreciation) or replacement costs?
Do you need insurance riders on special items?
Is a windstorm insurance policy required?
Do you need flood insurance?
FLOOD INSURANCE
Standard homeowner’s policies do not cover flood damage, including storm surge, from a hurricane.
Flood insurance is available to all residents in all participating communities. There is usually a 30-day waiting period.
If more than half of your home is damaged and is not built to current standards, it will have to be elevated and retrofitted.
Permits for any type of construction or reconstruction in the floodplain is required.
FILING A CLAIM
Notify your insurance agent as soon as possible and have your policy number on hand.
Ask when you can expect an adjustor to visit your home.
Present photos and inventory of damaged items, including their age and value.
Have any receipts and estimates on hand.
Be patient. Cases are expedited based on severity or hardship.