Insurance Tips - Before the Storm

Insurance Tips - Before the Storm

•  Keep a written inventory of your possessions. Take photos or videotape of each room and the exterior of your home to keep with your inventory.

• Gather important documents and insurance cards and policies. Unless they are stored in a safe place, take them with you if you evacuate along with an inventory of your possessions, including receipts and photos or videos.

• Know what your policy covers. Check your auto policy to see if you have comprehensive coverage “other than collision.” Comprehensive coverage pays if a storm, fire, or flood damages your car. Find out how much coverage you have for “additional living expenses” to cover lodging, food, and other expenses if you’re forced to vacate your residence after suffering a covered loss.
  
• Consider purchasing flood, wind and hail coverage. You may have to buy separate policies to cover wind,
  hail, and flood damage. Homeowners, farm and ranch, renters, windstorm, and condominium policies do not
  cover damage from rising waters.

• Consider renters insurance if you don’t have it. If you rent an apartment, duplex, house, or townhouse, you
  may need renters insurance to protect your belongings.

• Know your policy limits. Your limits may be too low if replacement costs have risen because of new additions,
  improvements, or inflation.

Flood Insurance
Homeowners and commercial property policies specifically exclude coverage for damage from flooding from
rising waters. To protect yourself from losses caused by most flooding, you'll need to purchase a separate flood
insurance policy. For more information about flood insurance, contact HIG- Henrich Insurance Group 713-349-0400. WWW.HIGTEXAS.COM

Windstorm Insurance
If your property is located in one of Texas' 14 coastal counties, or parts of southeastern Harris County, you will
need windstorm or hail insurance in event of a storm or hurricane. You cannot buy or change coverage once a hurricane has entered the Gulf of Mexico. For more information about windstorm coverage call HIG-Henrich Insurance Group or visit our website 713-349-0400. WWW.HIGTEXAS.COM

Insurance Tips - After the Storm
Contact your insurance agent or company promptly. Keep a record of all contacts you have with your company. Be prepared to answer questions about the extent and severity of the damage.
If your home is not insured, contact your local Red Cross or FEMA Disaster Recovery Center for assistance. Call FEMA at 1-800-621-FEMA (3362).
Make a list of your damaged property. Photograph or videotape the damage if possible. Don't throw away damaged items until your insurance adjuster has had a chance to view them.
If there is partial damage to your home, take reasonable and necessary repairs to protect your home and property from further damage. Cover broken windows and holes to keep rain out. Don't make permanent repairs until instructed by your insurance company. Keep a record of your repair expenses and save all receipts.