Insurance tips for hurricane season

Hurricane season starts June 1. You've mapped out an evacuation route, but have you reviewed your insurance coverage to make sure your family would be protected after a storm?

Check these coverages:

• Wind insurance. Many home insurance policies don't cover wind and hail damage if you live along the Gulf Coast. Consider buying wind insurance if you don't have it.
• Flood insurance. Most home insurance doesn't cover flood damage. Don't delay; flood policies usually take effect 30 days after purchase.
• Auto coverage. Consider adding comprehensive coverage that pays for damage to your car from flooding, hail, fire, and wind.

More tips:

• Know your deductible. That's the amount you must pay before insurance pays. Deductibles for wind and hail damage are usually different than for other types of damage.
• Put your agent's and insurance company's phone numbers in your phone. Make copies of your policy's declaration page and auto and health ID cards. Email them to yourself so you can get to them if you leave your house.
• Check your roof and windows. Repairs and reinforcement could save you money later.
• Make a home inventory. Take pictures or videos of every room, closet, and drawer in your house and garage. This could help if you need to file an insurance claim.
• Create an evacuation plan and build an emergency go kit, including water, food, medicine, clothes, pet food, and other vital supplies.

Have an insurance question? Call TDI's Help Line at 800-252-3439. It's open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Central time.

Resources

• Are you ready for a disaster?
• A home inventory: Why you need it and how to do it
• What to know about deductibles