Staff Reports
The Property Casualty Insurers Association of America (PCI) “stands ready to help with any insurance related questions as the Tropical Storm Emily begins to make impact along the coast,” the group said in a Monday press release.
PCI and other industry groups work closely with the Federal Emergency Management Agency, assisting Florida homeowners and business owners before and after any disaster.
“With Tropical Storm Emily recently forming off the coast of Tampa, PCI encourages Floridians to get prepared for a system that could bring potential flooding and property damage,” said Logan McFaddin, PCI Florida regional manager.
“Proper precautionary measures should include making sure you have your agent or insurance company’s information readily available,” she said. “We also encourage policyholders to take an inventory of your home or business, documenting your items with your smart phone. Should your home, business or automobile be damaged, be sure to call your insurer immediately.”
“PCI warns Floridians to be wary of any contractors that come by their home or business saying they can help with any damage ahead of you calling your insurer,” McFaddin continued. “While it may seem like they are trying to help you during your time of need, the unfortunate reality is that there are some out there that are looking to game the system and make a few bucks. Call and make a claim with your insurer before any work is performed.”
Here’s a list of hurricane precautions offered by the organization:
— Review your property insurance policy, especially the “declarations” page, and check whether your policy pays replacement costs, or actual cash value for a covered loss.
— Inventory your household items, and photograph or videotape them for further documentation. Keep this information and your insurance policies in a safe place.
— Keep the name, address and claims-reporting telephone number of your insurer and agent in a safe and easily accessible place.
— Protect your property by covering all windows with plywood or shutters, moving vehicles into the garage when possible and placing grills and patio furniture indoors.
— Keep all receipts for any repairs so your insurance company can reimburse you.
— Check with your insurance adjuster for referrals to professional restoration, cleaning and salvage companies if additional assistance is needed.
— Make sure watercraft are stored in a secure area, like a garage or covered boat dock. A typical homeowners policy will cover property damage in limited instances for small watercraft, and separate boat policies will provide broader, more extensive property and liability protection for larger, faster boats, yachts, jet skis and wave runners.
Moreover, flood damage is not covered by a standard homeowners policy, and there is a 30-day waiting period before flood coverage goes into effect. Check with your insurer to see if you have flood insurance, since flood damage is not covered by the standard homeowners policy.
For still more information:
— PCI Hurricane Headquarters: PCI’s Hurricane Headquarters page
— PCI Online Magazine: http://bit.ly/HurricanePrep2017
— PCI 2017 Have A Plan Insurance Checklist: http://bit.ly/HurricaneChecklist17
— PCI 2017 Hurricane Fact Sheet: http://bit.ly/HurricaneFacts17
