Is your Florida Home Insurance up to date? Do you have all coverages you need?
I’m sure you have all read or seen the news stating that we should expect an above average hurricane season this year. And as all Florida homeowners know, this can lead to some added anxiety. The current estimated weather forecast states that there will be about 18 named storms this year, with 9 expected to become hurricanes. What should you do, as a Florida homeowner, to prepare yourself?
Here are just a few things you should be aware of:
1. Make sure you have hurricane coverage on your homeowners insurance policy. This may seem elementary, but you never know. Also, make sure you have a deductible you can afford. If you have a 10% hurricane deductible, and your dwelling coverage is $300k, you will be responsible for the first $30,000 in damage to your home in the event of a hurricane.
2. Consider carrying flood insurance. Your homeowner’s insurance policy does not cover damage caused by flood. If you are in preferred flood zone, the rates could be as low as $129 for the year. Please keep in mind that there is a 30 day waiting period to apply for flood insurance in some cases. Do not wait until there is a storm on the horizon as it may be too late.
3. Try to make your home as storm proof as possible. Hurricane shutters can protect your home while providing you with discounts on your Florida Home Insurance policy. Make sure you have flashlights with fresh batteries in case of a power outage. Stock up on non-perishables and bottled water.
4. Last but not least: Know where to go in case of an evacuation. Your local fire department can usually tell you where that is. Typically, a local school is a designated evacuation center.
As usual, remain calm and stay tuned to your local TV channel or radio station for current weather updates.
Please call Focus Insurance Group at 813-712-4191 should you have any questions regarding your Florida Home Owners Insurance Policy.