If a global pandemic and economic downturn wasn’t enough for the past year, the 2021 Atlantic hurricane season is predicted to be more active than usual. There is good news though: meteorologists don’t anticipate as many storms as we saw in 2020. But are you, your family, and your business prepared for the incoming storms? Read on to learn how you can get ready now and protect what’s important to you.
How many storms are predicted for the 2021 hurricane season?
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is predicting the Atlantic will see between 13 and 20 total storms, with 6 to 10 becoming hurricanes and 3 to 5 of them becoming major hurricanes. While this is less active than last year’s hurricane season, experts warn that it only takes one bad storm to devastate a community.
How do I prepare my home for hurricane season?
First, be sure you read our entire Best Florida Hurricane Preparedness Checklist for tips on what supplies you’ll need to wait out a storm if it should hit. Start collecting supplies before the season officially starts, and be sure you have your important documents somewhere safe and water-proof.
Other things you can do to secure your home and personal possessions include:
- Installing storm shutters over your windows.
- Take inventory of all of your belongings with videos and photos in case of damage.
- Remove or trim any trees or branches that close to your home.
- Move your electronics off the floor and wrap in plastic to keep them dry in case of flooding.
- Keep cash on hand in case the power goes out so you can still pick up the essentials.
Are hurricanes covered under my home insurance policy?
Generally no. Your home insurance policy will cover “water damage”, but that does NOT cover damage from flooding. In order to be covered in case of a flood, you will need specialized flood insurance. Flood insurance covers up to two acres or two properties that have been damaged, but will not cover any mold or mildew damage as a result of the flooding.
How do I prepare my boat for an incoming storm?
The best-case scenario is to take your boat out of the water and secure it on land before the storm hits, such as in your garage or a boat storage facility. If you have to leave your boat docked and the marina doesn’t require you to bring it in, then be sure it is moored where there is less chance of waves building, and use enough slack in the ropes to allow the boat to move with the water.
Does my boat insurance policy cover hurricane damage?
In most cases, your boat insurance will cover wind and storm damage. However, before you purchase your policy, your insurance provider will require that you have a hurricane plan to submit to them. Double check with your insurance advisor that your marine insurance policy adequately covers potential hurricane damage, and review your hurricane plan before the season starts.
What can I do to protect my commercial property from a hurricane?
To protect your commercial property during a hurricane, make sure you do the following as soon as possible:
- Secure and back up all of your business data.
- Have your building, especially the roof, inspected for any weaknesses against a major storm.
- Be sure your important papers and documents are secure somewhere safe from flood waters.
- Follow local guidelines for boarding your property’s windows and using sandbags to protect from flooding.
- Create a plan and review with your staff so everyone is prepared in case the business is shut down due to a hurricane.
Will my commercial property and casualty insurance cover storm damage?
Most commercial property and liability insurance don’t automatically cover hurricane coverage, with the exception of businesses in Puerto Rico. You will want to talk with your insurance advisor to be sure you have the right riders added to your policy.
Summary
Hurricane season is fast approaching, and as we’ve seen in recent years, the number of storms will continue to be high. It is imperative that you prepare NOW for the upcoming season by securing your home, your marine vessels, and your commercial property. An hour of preparation now could make a huge difference later and save you time and money.
If you’re not sure you have enough coverage to weather the upcoming storms, contact an advisor at JAISIN. Our expert advisors can review all of your policies and be sure that you have the best coverage at the best price to protect your assets. Click or call JAISIN Insurance Solutions today and put your mind at ease before the next storm.
